ELK RUN RESIDENCE
Location: Telluride, CO
Situated on a mountain slope near Telluride, Colorado, the house is sited to preserve the aspen forest, remain unobtrusive, and to open up to the surrounding mountain views. Arriving at the site through the aspen forest, a set of three building forms emerges into view, composed in a simple series of asymmetrical gables to articulate the key spaces of the house and to relate to the jagged mountain tops in the distance. This contextual strategy could be described as a strategy of rhyming as opposed to juxtaposition. The form and palette of materials of the house were inspired by its mountain context and the town’s early mining history. The forms appear as if they emerge from the earth and are detailed to be monolithic, but with a fine grain texture that is revealed as you approach. As you move from exterior to interior the material shifts from metal to wood and a minimal white palette on the walls/ceiling allows nature to highlight each space. The orientation of living spaces is carefully calibrated. Spaces for sleeping, study or bathing are oriented to the aspen forest and hilly site to provide intimacy and privacy. Spaces for gathering, conversation and dining feel as if they open to and extend into the dramatic mountain gorge.