The Jackson Hole Lodge renovation enhances the guest experience while honoring the character and history of one of Jackson Hole's classic hospitality destinations. Designed to complement the original lodge, first constructed in the late 1940s, the project thoughtfully modernizes key guest amenities and arrival experiences while preserving the property's established architectural identity. Through a series of carefully integrated improvements, the renovation strengthens the lodge's visual presence, enhances functionality, and creates a welcoming first impression for visitors arriving in Jackson, Wyoming.

At the heart of the renovation is a new porte cochère, designed to replace the original entry structure that was lost during a storm. The new arrival canopy maintains the lodge's historic mountain character through the use of exposed log construction while incorporating modern structural steel to achieve slimmer profiles that match the scale of the original timber architecture. A tempered glass canopy provides year-round weather protection for arriving guests while allowing natural daylight to illuminate the entrance. Integrated LED lighting discreetly highlights the exposed log structure after dark, creating a warm, inviting arrival experience and improving visibility from the street.

The renovation also reimagines the lodge's outdoor amenities with a new resort-style swimming pool and support buildings that respect the scale, materials, and architectural language of the original property. Designed as both a guest amenity and a visual landmark, the pool features an elegant infinity edge that creates a striking focal point along one of Jackson Hole's primary roadways. The curved geometry of the pool mirrors the adjacent roadway, establishing a subtle dialogue between architecture and landscape while enhancing the property's curb appeal.

Supporting pool facilities were designed to blend seamlessly with the existing lodge through the use of traditional log siding, historic color palettes, and carefully scaled building forms. These additions reinforce the property's cohesive architectural identity while providing updated amenities that meet the expectations of today's travelers.

Landscape design plays a critical role in balancing visibility with guest comfort. While the pool engages the surrounding streetscape to create an inviting public presence, the guest accommodations are buffered from nearby traffic through a thoughtfully designed perimeter landscape. Native grasses create a natural visual screen that softens views of passing vehicles while enhancing privacy and reinforcing the site's connection to the surrounding Wyoming landscape.

A custom perimeter fence further contributes to the lodge's character and functionality. Constructed with weathering Cor-Ten steel panels and native log posts, the fence combines contemporary durability with traditional mountain materials. The weathering steel develops a rich natural patina over time, eliminating the need for routine maintenance while complementing the surrounding landscape. The combination of rustic timber and modern steel creates a timeless architectural expression that reflects Jackson Hole's unique blend of western heritage and contemporary design.

Throughout the project, every intervention was guided by a commitment to preserving the lodge's historic character while introducing durable, low-maintenance materials and thoughtfully integrated modern amenities. The result is a hospitality destination that honors its legacy while offering an enhanced guest experience for generations to come.

The Jackson Hole Lodge exemplifies Ward Blake Architects' approach to hospitality architecture by balancing historic preservation, contemporary functionality, and a strong sense of place. Through sensitive renovation, contextual design, and carefully crafted architectural details, the project creates an inviting mountain lodge that celebrates the spirit of Jackson Hole while elevating the guest experience.

Location

Jackson, Wyoming

Project Size

3,300 sq. ft. Remodel/Addition

13,000 sq. ft. Project Development