Cowboy Heaven

The inspiration for our Cowboy Heaven comes from the snow fences that run across the rolling fields of America’s west.

Driving past these on the way to the site, this was our first clear indicator of how land and weather would impact the project.

Moved by the beauty of the rugged land in Big Sky, Montana, we decided to work in partnership with both the site’s natural topography and extreme environment for our Cowboy Heaven Project. Starkly beautiful, the steep, narrow site sits 8,400 feet above sea level. Fifty mile-per-hour winds, twelve foot snowbanks, and -15 degree temperatures are common. The house is positioned in a narrow cut just below the highest point of the site, which allows the land to wrap around the house on the north/west side, softening the impact of the prevailing winds. The house’s stone base is a full story high to weather the 12 foot snows. Embedded to the north, the stone base extends like a ships prow to the southeast.

The upper portion of the house is wrapped in a basket weave of Shou Sugi Ban. Inspired by the snow fences of the American west, this wood cladding literally catches the snow within the façade of the building. In places, this screen separates from the building, creating exterior spaces where the snow is held back so our clients can enjoy a protected moment outdoors. Supported by the stone prow, the upper volume of the house cantilevers south and east, capturing multiple views of the mountains and valleys.

We have always been interested in relating our projects to their sites. Here was an opportunity to maximize the natural drama of the landscape, creating a serene space that interacts with the landscape, while simultaneously creating a sense of place, warmth, and human scale.

Awards:
AIA Montana

^{Photography by: Matthew Millman}