Amid the snowy wonderland of the Rocky Mountains in the American West, the 'House at 9,000 Feet' by Mark Mackay and Manual Alvarez architects may be found. This house is a striking example of modern mountain architecture. The cabin has a unique setting at 9,000 feet above sea level. It incorporates contemporary architecture with its natural surroundings so that architecture can gracefully respond to extreme site challenges and the ever-present climate in unison with nature.
Embracing the Challenge of Extreme Conditions
Additionally, quite a lot of work is involved in designing a building at such a high level, and the people of this Design Entity entered the arena. This building had a thirty-percent slope/ notoriously steep angle and an average annual snow depth of six meters. Therefore, the architects turned to 'floating' the building upon a stilt formation. By employing this creative alternative, the house can be erected so that it seems to be floating right above the site, thus unveiling views in both directions- the valley below and the snow-topped mountains. Furthermore, this will assist the community and reduce the heavy snowfall encountered during the long winter season.
One holistic design solution for harsh climates is to address home insulation of roofs, walls, and windows, which minimizes heat loss and makes the building more comfortable.
This fact-intensive region, with the arid high deserts being its climate, presented further barriers where the high-temperature gain and high wind loads were considered. On the contrary, MacKay-Lyons Sweetapple Architects brought out and practiced the realistic design principles that take shape and efficiency of importance. Solar passive strategy and windproof techniques have been used and blended with the design to produce great comfort and sustainability throughout the year.
Spanning 4,400 square feet, the interior of the House at 9,000 Feet offers a sanctuary amidst the rugged wilderness. Visitors are greeted with panoramic views of the mountains as they traverse the lightweight perforated steel bridge, which adds a modern touch to the rustic setting. Inside, a transparent stair illuminated by a skylight above enhances the feeling of openness and connection with the environment.
Thoughtful Spatial Arrangements
The great room, with its high, curved cedar ceiling, exudes warmth and texture. An uninterrupted 88-foot-long window seat on the south side frames breathtaking views and controls solar heat gain. A covered deck at the western end provides the perfect spot for taking in the scenery, while the master bedroom and media room offer privacy and tranquility at the eastern end. Four guest bedrooms, organized across two levels, ensure ample space for hosting.
A Testament to Modern Mountain Living
Incorporating ski-in/ski-out access, the House at 9,000 Feet seamlessly blends luxury with functionality. Its elongated array of full-height windows invites the outdoors in, creating a serene retreat where residents can immerse themselves in the beauty of nature while enjoying the comforts of modern living. This breathtaking example of contemporary mountain architecture stands as a beacon of sustainable design, showcasing how innovative solutions can transform even the most extreme environments into havens of tranquility and beauty. With every detail meticulously crafted, the House at 9,000 Feet celebrates nature's majesty and humanity's ingenuity.
