A Jackson Hole Home

SITUATED…

high above the town of Jackson, Wyoming and nestled among the snow-capped mountains and expansive valleys of Grand Teton National Park, lies McLean Quinlan’s latest opus – an airy residence designed with nature as muse…

THE CLIENTS…

a couple of talented designers themselves, worked closely with the UK-based firm to envision a home that is as much rooted in its surrounds as it is elevated by its architecture and design. The approach melds contemporary and local vernacular in an alchemical mix the architects describe as “both European chalet and classic American cabin.”

A CAREFULLY…

selected palette of tactile stone, natural timber, organic plaster and sleek glass help set an earthy yet sophisticated vibe. In the mud room, locally-collected pebbles line the floor while indigenous Fir and Hemlock serve as ceiling timbers and wall paneling respectively. From the European side of the pond, the architects imported wide plank Danish flooring in Douglas Fir and slim-framed Swiss glass walls, doors and windows.

SCULPTURAL…

timber handles designed by the clients stand as an example of the high priority placed on detail and craftsmanship, while the meticulous attention paid to material and finish reflect the team’s focus on endurance – ensuring a design that will patina to ever increasing beauty over time.

AS ONE TRAVELS…

from the open expanse of the public upper level to the more private lower level, the architects explore a more tightly choreographed play between solid and void – framing out spectacular views while strategically dissolving the line between indoors and out with sliding glass doors and wooden porches that spill out onto the landscape.

OUTSIDE…

large boulders were positioned to facilitate gradient adjustments along the steep slope – often intermingling with the architecture, as patios and staircases were built up to and around them…

FROM INDOORS…

to out, the team took care to honor the majestic surrounds – adding to a sense of place and shelter with clusterings of indigenous grasses and aspen trees, and further blurring the distinction between home and hills with a sensitively outfitted skin. From above, silvered cedar shingles mottle into the terrain, while just below – stonework walls stand ready to welcome the encroachment of sagebrush and lichen to become truly one with nature.