Aspen based firm Studio B Architects designed this natural house design here in Woody Creek, Colorado. The Paimpiano Residence is certainly a stunner, but not without its challenges. This riverfront home sits on a narrow lot tucked between a steep embankment and the river’s edge – a lovely but difficult site. But as they say, nothing worth having comes easy. Thus this dream home began to take shape as a series of structures peeking out from among the trees, unified to one another and to their surroundings thanks to their earthy material palette. The wood clad house was designed around the existing trees and topography, making it a part of the land rather than just a structure on it. Check it out.
While the house is largely camouflaged from the river side – an important element that helps to maintain the natural beauty of the site – it is a beacon of contemporary architectural with an earthy edge as you approach from the winding street.
The sloping property leads you organically down the hillside to the main entrance.
Tall windows are largely invisible during the daytime, reflecting the forested surroundings. But by night with the lights aglow, they produce a warm, inviting lantern effect among the trees.
While the timber exterior blends in with these forest surroundings, the horizontal pattern of planks brings a little variety to the scenery.
You’ll only truly appreciate the scale and grandiosity of the towering trees by looking straight up…
… but with an outlook like this, you’ll find eye wandering down the rushing river and through the trees.
The massive windows flood interior with light and invite these breathtaking view in, while also giving passersby a sneak peek at life inside.
Apart from light and views, the angled line of windows creates a striking design feature to the facade.
The sunken, glazed entrance is the perfect transition from outdoors in – a limbo that leads you in while still boasting a bright, open, alfresco feel.
Interiors have a decidedly modern yet slightly cottage-chic appeal befitting of such a modern home in this rustic setting.
The open concept kitchen, living and dining areas mean you can take in the view from anywhere in this space.
And while interiors are simple, they are far from stark, with modern furnishings, contemporary lighting, and integrated art nooks for displaying prized collections.
The branch-like light fixture suspended at the center of the room is art overhead, no that lighting is needed by day. Floor-to-ceiling windows illuminate every inch, every corner.
The expansive glazing spills into the stairwell, offering views as you ascend.
While the ground level has a strong connection to the earth, the upper level makes you feel as though you’re floating among the treetops.
This master bedroom is a peaceful retreat, featuring a wall of windows that makes this small but sweet space seem much larger than its actual size. The white and wood interiors echo the outdoors in winter. A clerestory window opposite the bed allows for additional natural light without compromising privacy.
The master bathroom is probably one of our favorite rooms in this house, which offers privacy, views and a contemporary elegant style that surely makes it one of the homeowner’s favorite spots as well.
A secondary bedroom.
Site plan:
Elevations:
Floor plans:
Studio B Architects
via Contemporist
photo credit: Derek Skalko, Andrew Pogue