A Renovated Rancher Residence, Jackson: Architecture by Northworks

Classic design meets Mountain West living

Nestled in a secluded, leafy neighborhood in Jackson, Wyoming, this new residence is designed around the concept of a laidback mountain lifestyle.

Created for our own founding partner Austin DePree and his family, the chief objective was a home that makes the everyday special within its Mountain West setting. The project involved a major renovation of an early 1980s split-level ranch. The original structure was razed save for its foundations, which were re-imagined into an innovative new build. Now a five-bedroom, five-bath home, the house sets the tone for a modest and relaxed retreat. Its capacity to showcase beautiful mountain views is carefully balanced with the family’s desire for privacy. Consequently, generous indoor-outdoor living spaces are juxtaposed with smaller windows on the aspects immediately adjacent to neighborhood properties.

By reusing the original foundations, the new residence was led by a pragmatic vernacular of more historical building forms. Consequently, spaces shaped with simple geometric forms are combined with classic stylings and finishes throughout.

A variety of architectural experiences are created through varied levels and ceiling heights – resulting in a dynamism uncommon in a smaller home like this. The economy of space meant that every square foot had to be carefully considered. In tribute to the surrounding mountain landscape, the material palette features weathered wood siding, locally salvaged timber, galvanized roof accents, and dry-stacked Montana moss stone.

STANDOUT FEATURES

French doors reflect the family’s love of indoor-outdoor living, in addition to spacious covered decks featured on both the north and south sides of the house. These exterior living areas are made to linger and spend time in, complete with covers, fireplaces, and comfortable furniture. The site’s mountainous setting provides an inspiring backdrop to family downtime. Elsewhere, a large, classically-styled chef’s kitchen functions as a social hub, complete with a soapstone island, marble countertops and oak flooring.

ON REFLECTION

Streamlining a pre-existing foundation with a new structure is both unusual and challenging within the context of 21 st century builds, but due consideration and creative collaboration made this project a resounding success. What’s more, the client’s whole family was involved in the process, resulting in a highly individualized home that reflects their own personalities and values.

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