MCLAIN FLATS RESIDENCE

Client: Private
Location: Pitkin County, Colorado
General Contractor: Craig Barnes Construction
Project Status: Completed 2014

This modern home designed by Z-Group Architects is perched to take advantage of the stunning vistas from Independence Pass to Snowmass Mountain. After several years of construction on the house, the focus shifted to the landscape design where C1D was challenged to better integrate and blend the home into the gamble oak and juniper hillside.

C1D achieved this by providing a hierarchy of small private spaces and large entertaining spaces around the house all focused on the warm south-facing aspect. On the north side of the property, an old barn and paddock were situated below the house and visually blocked by gamble oak trees. By cleaning up the understory of these trees the house became connected to the remaining portions of the property, creating the sense of an estate. Carefully placed trees were designed to soften the façade and shade spaces while selectively editing views.

This estate was given a more focused main entrance and an autocourt that accommodated more backing room from the garages and designated visitor parking. All the bedrooms were provided with their own outdoor living spaces and were connected to the common gathering spaces by soft paths and native plantings.