REDstead

REDstead is nestled high above Aspen within the coveted Red Mountain Ranch community that at one time was a working ranch. The sloping site overlooks a pristine pasture, which is the center piece of the ranch, and enjoys unobstructed views of Aspen Mountain and Independence Pass. The bucolic surroundings immediately influenced the design thinking to respect the sense of place rather than trying to define it. The Japanese principle of Wabi Sabi, roughly translated as ‘rustic simplicity’ and ‘perfectly imperfect’, also helped guide and define the spiritual nature of the project.rnrnThe steep site was the most significant challenge. The access point on to the property sits approximately 25’ above the desired auto court level. In addition, the existing driveway was not up to code, which required it to be wider and less steep. The other challenge that further complicated the grading was the desire for the great room to walk out on to natural grade and not be suspended in the air with a deck. This greatly impacted the house’s entry sequence. The design team approached the entry sequence by setting the great room floor level 5’-6” below the auto court level, which opened the opportunity to create a dynamic and experiential entry through a sunken rock garden. Rather than immediately stepping into the home from the auto court, guest now leave the car behind and journey down over large natural rock outcroppings and over a stone bridge leading to the front door.rnrnThe sustainability efforts included a 16kW photovoltaic array, continuous wrapped insulation, and advanced mechanical systems. Passive solar strategies were also used to create less dependency on mechanical controls. The exterior materials were carefully researched for their durability, low-maintenance and were sourced locally, when possible.rnrnAn indoor/outdoor experience was a critical design objective. The house was situated so that it is unmistakably nestled and deeply rooted to the land. The native grasses from the pasture below were intentionally introduced into the property to honor and respect the context as if the house has always been there.rnrnThe primary design goal was to create a simple lifestyle where the main level provides one-story living. The central great room is the predominate volume and flanked on either side by secondary volumes, the primary suite and secondary suite. These individual programs have their own gable volumes and are united by subservient linking volumes to suggest a rambling, homestead collection of buildings.rnrnAnother design goal was to capture unobstructed views of Aspen Mountain from the great room. Coordination with the surveyor and site mockups were meticulously studied to ensure the these views were achieved while creating a walk-out experience to the outdoors without significant grade change or excessive heights.rnrnThe most unique program of REDstead is the 1,500 SF wellness center. Although located in the lower level of the home, the wellness center’s gym is flooded with natural light from the adjacent stair and expansive window wall above. Moving past the gym the mood shifts to tranquility and rejuvenation as you enter the relaxation room with an adjoining massage room and full bath. The relaxation room is the ideal environment to relax, as it includes fireside lounging, a spa with a waterfall feature, a sauna and steam shower.