Ridge 52 Residence | Ward + Blake Architects

Set high above the valley floor on the side of East Gros Ventre Butte, this residence takes advantage of the magnificient views to the surrounding mountain ranges. The house is seamlessly tucked into the landscape in harmonic respect to its site in order to meet the 20’-0” maximum above grade height constraints required by the County. The house becomes an organic extension of the hillside with the garage buried into the ground with a sod roof that connects beautifully with its site and extends over the circulation areas of the plan as it emerges from the slope to extend the length of the house. The sod roofs soften the visual impact to neighbors above and while controlling stormwater runoff from the standing seam shed roofs that rise to the commanding mountain views on the north, west, and south. The low slope shed roofs reach beyond the house to protect exterior space on the outdoor terraces, while providing optimal solar control for interior spaces. The elongated form of the building combined with carefully choreographed openings gracefully embraces the natural contours of the site providing a biophilic experience for the user as spaces open up to capture the natural surroundings while integrating carefully into the existing topography. It blurs the lines between interior and exterior space as natural stone and wood finishes flow continuously between the two.

Mass and void are a consistent theme with stone walls complemented by large sections of glass that capture panoramic views and enhance the passive solar performance of the house. Natural light permeates deep into the house to warm concrete topping slabs below finished floors, storing energy and proving much needed daylight during the high mountain winter season.

The passive energy component of the house combined with a super insulated envelope and triple pane glass significantly reduces the energy load on the mechanical system. An air to water heat pump powers the radiant hydronic floors and supplemental forced air system with both heat and cooling. Heat recovery ventilators create a comfortable fresh air environment and the radiant floors keep occupants feet warm as they move throughout the house in their stockings or barefoot.

The Western character of the project speaks to the rugged beauty of the area. Natural stone, weathered wood, and rusted metal combine with sod roofs create a contemporary interpretation that pays homage to the old "Soddy Cabins" of the late 1800s frontier settlements. While the shed roofs reference vernacular ranch buildings common in the area, nodding to a tradition that continues to define the region.

Photography: Alan Blakely (https://www.alanblakely.com/)