While renovating a building may seem to offer less opportunity than a blank slate, a considerable creative challenge is presented when the preexisting component is picturesque: a relic or ruin, ideally dating from a bygone, colorful age. Then, all manner of possibilities come into play, the most interesting being how the old might become part of something new: the structural and emotional interplay between the vivid past and the practical present.rnrnOur design for Barn Studio, perched on a ridge with picturesque Aspen views, rings an interesting change on the idea of the new-old house. The original building appeared to be a remnant of a mostly collapsed, rubble-stone agrarian structure, reconceived as a residence via the insertion of contemporary living amenities. In fact, it was entirely modern, designed by its owner to resemble a clever meeting of modern life and the golden days of Colorado’s yesteryear.rnrnR+B’s clients, a couple with three young children, purchased this folly and its surrounding acreage, seeing it as the cornerstone of a compound that would ultimately include a range of building types. The idea was to make 3000 square feet livable for five people while the other structures took shape, and to create a paradigm for building on the site, one that respected the area’s rural-agrarian history while extending that legacy into the future.rnrnBarn Studio unfolds on three levels: a subterranean space incorporating media and game rooms; a double-height main floor, which we lightened and contemporized; and an L-shaped mezzanine that doubles as a sleeping loft and library. Although there are abundant reminders of the place as it was, notably a distinctive carved ram’s head motif, the design’s reimagining is at once more useful and more cheerful: a welcoming, offbeat hideaway – and elegant, fully-equipped crash pad for a rambunctious family of five – that belongs to the past without being mired in it.rnrnOf the two R+B-designed residences that followed Barn Studio on the property, says Broughton, ‘they’re informed by what we did here first. It’s all about stewardship – uniting the past with today’s processes while respecting and appreciating the people who were here before.’

Almost as difficult as reinventing the wheel – architecturally speaking – is transforming a typology: taking a building style so familiar as to be embedded in the collective memory, and doing it differently. And not for novelty’s sake, but rather to reinterpret a beloved historic genre through the considerations of contemporary family life, changing aesthetic tastes, and sustainable building practice.rnrnSuch were the challenges faced by R+B in the design of Woodlands, a residence nestled in a magnificent Aspen valley, beside a pristine lake reflecting sublime mountain views. The architectural model was the national park lodge, a typology associated with rustic grandeur, fast friendship, and the celebration of the American West. All of these traditions remained relevant to the house’s design. But both outside and within, we transformed the late 19u003csupu003ethu003c/supu003e/early 20u003csupu003ethu003c/supu003e century public model to suit the predilections of a modern family in a 21u003csupu003estu003c/supu003e-century private home.rnrnThe austere front façade hews closely to the ‘parkitecture’ ideal, with only a back-tilted ‘battered’ stone wall surrounding the front door – suggestive of a temple portal – to subvert expectations. In back, conversely, we took the post-and-beam motif typically associated with traditional lodge interiors and transformed it into an exoskeleton, in the form of a gracious, pergola-style covered porch running the full length of the back elevation, and continuing along the house’s eastern end.rnrnOn the interior – replacing a park lodge’s typical aesthetic and social cacophony – the cross-axial plan avoids visual noise and decorative kitsch: apart from the dramatic view from the front door, through the entry and double-height living room, to the lake, the layout is soothingly traditional, with discrete rooms unfolding in a relaxed rhythm; the interior architecture, executed in robust natural materials, offers the clarity and simplicity associated with modern design and contemporary living.rnrnThe project incorporates such advanced strategies as maximizing thermal comfort and energy efficiency, via geothermal and solar components, while addressing resiliency and well-being. Filtered outdoor air circulates throughout the interior, finished with natural, non-toxic materials; construction decisions favored lower carbon materials and structural systems, prioritizing wood over steel, and natural insulation over foam. The outcome is a house that not only supports the aesthetic and domestic aspirations of its residents, but stands as a paradigm for near net-zero sustainable design.

This estate residence, sited on a fifty-acre property and nestled in a sage-covered meadow with spectacular views of Colorado’s Mount Daly, replaced an outmoded 1980s home with nine level changes. Its creation reflected a central challenge of R+B’s residential practice: designing multivalent homes, at a grand scale reflective of and appropriate to their settings, that remain deeply personal to their inhabitants, and entirely reflective of their values.rnrnThe house both commands its surroundings and defers to them. It is formidable yet, with its vast expanses of glass, transparent, a singular expression of the monumental and evanescent. The exterior is clad in a Danish brick that reveals the appealing irregularity of hand-making, laid up in overlapping horizontal layers like wood shiplap, thereby combining the rugged majesty of the landscape with the simple elegance of a rural building tradition. Within, walls finished entirely in white oak – natural, textural, sustainable – enclose a temple of tranquility and beauty, characterized by pan-cultural craft: a chandelier based on elements R+B discovered in a Milanese chapel; a custom-designed and hand-loomed Japanese wall tapestry; anodized Italian tile enriching the fireplace surrounds.rnrnThe family sought a dwelling in which to celebrate their love of music, beauty (natural and human-made), art, and craft, an environment rooted in modesty, faith, and genuineness. Our response is captured in the design’s signature element: a Venetian-made stained glass guardrail, spanning the full length of the double-height living room’s mezzanine, for which we designed a pattern based on the score of the great hymn ‘Amazing Grace’ – a gesture at once bravura in conception and execution, and humbly spiritual in its intent.rnrnPerhaps most unusually, in the manner of such master builders as Frank Lloyd Wright and Carlo Scarpa, R+B not only executed the architecture, landscape, and interiors, but designed almost all of the details and components, down to the table settings and glassware. As such, the house – named Sage Hill by the owners – stands as a total work of art: an uncompromised expression of its creators’ intentions and, more to the point, the complete fulfillment of the family’s most ardent desires – utterly graceful, and entirely amazing.

The first objective was to create a modern indoor/outdoor space which pays homage to the natural landscape. Westcliffe is situated on 35-acres with breathtaking views in all directions. The goal for the remodel was to keep the original foundation intact, yet redirect the living spaces to focus on the views, thus blurring the lines between the interior and exterior world. The second objective was to create a modern home for an active, modern family. As a family of six with staff and numerous house guests, the client required a functional home built with practical, livable materials.rnrnThe home’s program was flipped 180 degrees to re-focus on the views. The entry and garage were relocated, opening the rear of the house to the untouched wilderness of the Lenado Valley. Custom sliding glass wall panels open onto comfortable patios eliminating the boundaries between outside and in. Exterior reflecting pools extend the viewfrom the foreground to the distant peaks providing tranquility to an otherwise busy lifestyle. The simple and rational floor plan meets the needs of an active family by flanking the upper level of the house with a private master suite and a family wing which are connected by several large communal gathering spaces. The program also includes his and her private offices, a media/rec room, and guest suites.rnrnMaterials such as porcelain tile, stainless steel cabinetry, and integral-color concrete countertops allow the family to live, work, and play without restraint. The interior décor echoes the simplicity of the architecture, while evoking a sophisticated comfort accented with antiques of indigenous cultures. The color palette is neutral and consistent, and the furnishings are without frills or unnecessary decoration. The design and landscape provide a canvas backdrop for this vibrant family to fill with their personal experiences.

Westcliffe is set on a bucolic, 35-acre site with epic views of Aspen’s ski mountains and the lush Lenado Valley to the north. The original project, completed by R+B in 2010, included a phased design approach that planned for flexibility to accommodate the family’s growing needs. The first phase transformed a traditional, non-site specific 9,700 SF home into a 14,500 SF modern resort inspired residence. The home’s program was flipped 180 degrees to re-focus on the views that surround the house on all sides.rnrnFor further enjoyment of the property, the second phase encompasses a stone path that meanders along the cliff from the existing house to an expansive patio with a pool and spa positioned to capture valley views through carefully planted trees. At the end of the patio, a new 500 SF pavilion features a flat roof and glass walls that blur the boundaries between inside and out, and which complement the orientation and program of the original home. Windows within the pavilion reveal the Elk Mountain Range beyond. Custom designed furnishings in neutral tones further enhance the modern design.

A Legacy Redefined: Modernizing a Home to Embrace Views, Light, and SustainabilityrnrnNestled in a tranquil neighborhood, this remodel transforms a legacy home perched above a dramatic river valley with sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. The design reimagines the property while respecting its historical roots, maintaining its existing structure and zoning non-conformities, and artfully balancing a seamless blend of modernity and timeless charm. The steep slopes and natural landscape are preserved, ensuring the design harmonizes with the environment while offering a private and serene retreat for its residents.rnrnDesign Goals and ObjectivesrnrnThe primary objective was to preserve the home’s breathtaking views and its unique interplay between public and private spaces while improving circulation, natural light, and functionality. By introducing a lighter, refined material palette, the interiors are brightened and imbued with a modern yet enduring aesthetic. Iterative design methods, including advanced rendering and VR tools, guided the evolution of the project, allowing the design team to distill the concept into a cohesive expression of form and function. Trust from the client, paired with the design team’s vision, led to the creation of a space that is both sophisticated and inviting—a sanctuary for family living and entertaining.rnrnChallenges and SolutionsrnrnPhased construction played a pivotal role in maintaining the project’s momentum and adhering to tight schedules. Dividing the scope into manageable change orders minimized review times, keeping the process efficient. The site’s constraints—including steep slopes and existing approvals—required careful planning. The design team crafted the exterior approach to avoid disrupting sensitive terrains and strategic landscaping enhanced the transition between public and private zones. Close collaboration between designers, contractors, and building officials streamlined the process and delivered a polished, innovative result.rnrnSustainabilityrnrnSustainability drives the heart of this remodel, aiming for near net-zero energy performance. A ground source heat pump system and a large solar array provide efficient heating and cooling while reducing reliance on non-renewable energy sources. Zoned HVAC systems allow precise control, ensuring minimal energy waste. Extensive insulation upgrades and passive design strategies, such as maximizing daylight and natural ventilation, further enhance the home’s energy efficiency. Deconstruction techniques during demolition ensured significant material reuse and recycling, reducing environmental impact of this remodel and fostering a circular economy approach to construction.rnrnA Celebration of Form and FunctionrnrnAt its core, this project is a celebration of architectural refinement. A distilled palette of modern wood, metal, and stone carries through the design, creating a seamless dialogue between interior and exterior. Key features such as the reimagined staircases and enlarged entertaining spaces enhance the home’s fluidity and function, while technological advancements modernize lighting and control systems for effortless living. This remodel epitomizes the potential of thoughtful design: respecting the past while reimagining the future, creating a home that is as innovative as it is timeless.rnrnThis project is more than a remodel; it is a statement—a legacy preserved and elevated for generations to come.

Set in a prime location at the base of Aspen Mountain, this long-loved vacation townhome underwent a full upgrade to accommodate a multi-generational family.rnrnAt three stories and with a loftlike Soho Club vibe, the upper level features a vaulted ceiling with exposed beams and skylights. Kitchen, dining, and multiple seating groups for gathering, lounging, reading, and working open onto a balcony overlooking town and the mountain views. An expanded open stair with a new glass guard rail allows natural light to filter down to levels below, which encompass a trio of primary suites and a bunk room. An elevator provides easy access between levels.rnrnThe remodel was completed in close collaboration with Bradley Stephens of New York-based Stephens Design Group. A complementary exterior remodel included updating and staining windows and refinishing wood soffits.

This estate residence, sited on a twenty-eight-acre property and nestled in a sage-covered meadow with spectacular views of Colorado’s Mount Daly, replaced an outmoded 1980s home with nine level changes. Its creation reflected a central challenge of R+B’s residential practice: designing multivalent homes, at a grand scale reflective of and appropriate to their settings, that remain deeply personal to their inhabitants, and entirely reflective of their values.rnrnThe house both commands its surroundings and defers to them. It is formidable yet, with its vast expanses of glass, transparent, a singular expression of the monumental and evanescent. The exterior is clad in a Danish brick that reveals the appealing irregularity of hand-making, laid up in overlapping horizontal layers like wood shiplap, thereby combining the rugged majesty of the landscape with the simple elegance of a rural building tradition. Within, walls finished entirely in white oak – natural, textural, sustainable – enclose a temple of tranquility and beauty, characterized by pan-cultural craft: a chandelier based on elements R+B discovered in a Milanese chapel; a custom-designed and hand-loomed Japanese wall tapestry; anodized Italian tile enriching the fireplace surrounds.rnrnThe family sought a dwelling in which to celebrate their love of music, beauty (natural and human-made), art, and craft, an environment rooted in modesty, faith, and genuineness. Our response is captured in the design’s signature element: a Venetian-made stained glass guardrail, spanning the full length of the double-height living room’s mezzanine, for which we designed a pattern based on the score of the great hymn ‘Amazing Grace’ – a gesture at once bravura in conception and execution, and humbly spiritual in its intent.rnrnPerhaps most unusually, in the manner of such master builders as Frank Lloyd Wright and Carlo Scarpa, R+B not only executed the architecture, landscape, and interiors, but designed almost all of the details and components, down to the table settings and glassware. As such, the house – named Sage Hill by the owners – stands as a total work of art: an uncompromised expression of its creators’ intentions and, more to the point, the complete fulfillment of the family’s most ardent desires – utterly graceful, and entirely amazing.

Almost as difficult as reinventing the wheel – architecturally speaking – is transforming a typology: taking a building style so familiar as to be embedded in the collective memory, and doing it differently. And not for novelty’s sake, but rather to reinterpret a beloved historic genre through the considerations of contemporary family life, changing aesthetic tastes, and sustainable building practice.rnrnSuch were the challenges faced by R+B in the design of Woodlands, a residence nestled in a magnificent valley, beside a pristine lake reflecting sublime mountain views. The architectural model was the national park lodge, a typology associated with rustic grandeur, fast friendship, and the celebration of the American West. All of these traditions remained relevant to the house’s design. But both outside and within, we transformed the late 19th/early 20th century public model to suit the predilections of a modern family in a 21st-century private home.rnrnThe austere front façade hews closely to the ‘parkitecture’ ideal, with only a back-tilted ‘battered’ stone wall surrounding the front door – suggestive of a temple portal – to subvert expectations. In back, conversely, we took the post-and-beam motif typically associated with traditional lodge interiors and transformed it into an exoskeleton, in the form of a gracious, pergola-style covered porch running the full length of the back elevation, and continuing along the house’s eastern end.rnrnOn the interior – replacing a park lodge’s typical aesthetic and social cacophony – the cross-axial plan avoids visual noise and decorative kitsch: apart from the dramatic view from the front door, through the entry and double-height living room, to the lake, the layout is soothingly traditional, with discrete rooms unfolding in a relaxed rhythm; the interior architecture, executed in robust natural materials, offers the clarity and simplicity associated with modern design and contemporary living.rnrnThe project incorporates such advanced strategies as maximizing thermal comfort and energy efficiency, via geothermal and solar components, while addressing resiliency and well-being. Filtered outdoor air circulates throughout the interior, finished with natural, non-toxic materials; construction decisions favored lower carbon materials and structural systems, prioritizing wood over steel, and natural insulation over foam. The outcome is a house that not only supports the aesthetic and domestic aspirations of its residents, but stands as a paradigm for near net-zero sustainable design.

Perfectly sited to capture dramatic Aspen Mountain views, the interior renovation of this five–bedroom, 7,874 square foot Red Mountain home involved a close collaboration between the R+B team and the New York City based owners – a curator of modern and contemporary Asian art with a Guggenheim Museum affiliation and a financier-philanthropist, respectively.rnrnAppreciating the scale and flow of the home, the project team worked to contemporize the older French Chateau-style structure and re-imagine aspects of the interior space.rnrnThe ample kitchen was modernized and reworked to accommodate the personal needs of the owners, as well as for catering and entertaining purposes. Ceiling beams were added to enhance to the formal dining room. The hall to the primary bedroom was dramatically opened and a new bedroom seating area specified to take advantage of mountain views. Furniture selection was in collaboration with Atelier AM.rnrnUpon completion, a tranquil, sophisticated setting reflects the sensibilities of the owners and embraces the serenity of the surrounding environment.