Built next to the Snake River in sparsely-populated Wyoming, this house features influences from two very different types of surroundings. Designed by Carney Logan Burke Architects, the residence occupies a piece of property which straddles the line between open fields and thick woodlands. As such, the architecture of the dwelling takes into account the typical styles of homes set within both environments, and the result is a fusion between an Alpine lodge and Great Plains farmhouse. Additionally, the elements integrated from both influences are all modernized, allowing the house to fit in comfortably while taking advantage of contemporary design trends. The three influences of the forest, the farmlands, and the modern home are all balanced and successfully combined into one cohesive family home.
The house is built in three major sections, each with its own roof and separated from the next by a low indoor walkway. Main living spaces and children’s bedrooms are located in larger central structure, while a garage and master suite occupy either side wing. The lot that the home was built on includes a few small tributary streams of the nearby river, which are beautifully and impressively integrated into the landscaping with bridges and plots of natural flowers. Inside, lighter wood hues and open spaces maximize light to emphasize the space contained within the house’s walls. The dwelling is unmistakably contemporary, but is built around a reinvention of fairly conventional cues.
Located at the border of a field and a forest, this impressive abode straddles the stylistic line between farmhouse and hunting lodge. Stone walls and timber beams suggest woodland retreats, while worn wood siding takes influence from local barns.
One of the more unique features of this residence is its partially detached master suite, which occupies a single-story structure down a hallway from the main home. The roof of this master suite is perpendicular in slope to that of the main building, further differentiating it.
The pathways leading into the home from all angles are artistic and creative, with trellises overhead and small bridges underfoot. Each major pathway is elevated and made up of a variety of materials to fit the environments they pass through.
Beautiful gardens on the property take advantage of natural vegetation and water springs, punctuated by a flowing water stream. The house sits above the sloping landscape at points, but is level with it at others.
Two different types of wood are made present on the outside of the dwelling. The first is a faded, smooth-finished variety used to accent and separate sections of the stone walls; the second is a medium-stained breed which makes up the beams of the roof and trellises.
Though its building materials are very natural and traditional, the overall architecture of the house makes clear that it is a very modern dwelling. The style of the building as a whole is reflective of Prairie School architecture, updated for the 21st century.
Most of the home’s wooden wall sections stick out from the structure somewhat, differentiating them from the stone covering while also maximizing interior space.
Inside, tall ceilings and continued natural elements make for a comfortable and airy home while retaining the woodland charm of the exterior. The stone exterior wall is carried on inward in certain sections, further connecting the inside of the home to its surroundings.
This spacious office takes advantage of a creative ceiling slope and wide corner windows to enhance the light entering the room, while built-in wooden shelves save space over freestanding furniture to further widen the floorplan.
Perhaps the residence’s most conventional room is its master bathroom, where dark tones are replaced by light wood finishes. The bathtub is mounted next to a set of corner windows, providing relaxingly scenic views.
Carney Logan Burke Architects
