Windy Gap Residence

The Windy Gap House, located on Town Mountain, seeks to balance an understated, minimal design with the soul of our mountain region. The low-profile form and dark palette keeps the exterior of the home hidden along the mountain side while dramatic glass walls create views to the distant mountains beyond from the interior.

Our client’s priorities of energy performance and flexibility were important for their multi-generational family. A holistic energy efficient design achieved an energy performance of 47% better than code for a $2,700 annual energy savings and with a solar-ready roof that can take the house to Net Zero. 3 lower level spaces were designed to evolve over time with the family needs and can serve as guest bedrooms, an art studio, a future in-law’s suite, a bunk room or a den.

Floor to ceiling windows and large sliding doors connect the kitchen, dining, and living spaces to mountain views and to the terrace. The volume of the main living space follows the rising roof line out to the covered terrace. The interior has a clean, bright and warm palette with oak floors and ceilings.

The space planning is organized around a central entry and stair that divides the public and private spaces. Exterior materials are brought into this 2-story space to reinforce the simple form of the house and indoor-outdoor concepts. Covered porches bookend the house offering public and private outdoor living and the long and low roof forms provide simple but striking lines on the landscape.

The distinctly modern design blends in to the mountain landscape with it’s understated forms and dark exterior palette. The house enjoys dramatic mountain views while not disrupting the views from other mountain sides across the valley.