Trained mostly as a modernist, it took the Colorado mountain landscape to pull architect Rich Carr of CCY Architects outside of his comfort zone. The result was this 4,200-square-foot Aspen home built with his family and green living in mind.
With breathtaking views on all sides, architectural inspiration was easy to come by. The exterior of the home was built with materials to complement the surroundings while paying homage to the town’s mining heritage. Douglas fir timbers, pigmented stucco and rusted corten steel siding are but a few.
Concrete tiles leading to the front entrance were continued through the interior of the home, eventually ending at an expansive outdoor terrace. Utilizing the southern location of the yard and a swanky custom fire feature, Carr and his family can take advantage of the added space three seasons of the year. A three-panel glass door separating the indoors from the elements can be opened to make both spaces feel expansive (weather permitting, of course).
With windows galore and enough furniture to comfortably seat a multitude of guests, the living room is the go-to spot for other families in the neighborhood. 20-foot ceilings and a primarily open floor plan help make the space feel light and airy, while wood paneling helps conceal the television and bring the focus back to the fireplace.
Taking center-stage in the design process, but not overtaking the design itself, is Carr’s use of green and energy efficient materials. On the list are extra-thick drywall and insulation, along with a solar thermal tube system that produces heat and hot water. This addition also acts as a privacy fence on the upper-level deck. While this home isn’t quite 100-percent energy efficient, Carr has no doubt he’ll get there someday.