Situated within a mature forest and carefully positioned along a gently sloping ridgeline, the Lower Ridge Residence is a contemporary mountain retreat that embraces the landscape through thoughtful site planning, natural materials, and a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living. Designed to preserve the character of the site while maximizing views and privacy, the residence exemplifies Ward Blake Architects' philosophy of creating architecture that belongs to its environment rather than competing with it.

The home is organized around a series of interconnected volumes that step naturally with the terrain, minimizing site disturbance while creating intimate courtyards, sheltered outdoor living spaces, and expansive views into the surrounding forest. A central outdoor courtyard serves as the heart of the residence, bringing natural light deep into the interior while creating a protected gathering space complete with fire features, terraces, and year-round outdoor amenities.

Large expanses of floor-to-ceiling glass dissolve the boundary between architecture and nature, allowing every major living space to engage with the surrounding landscape. Dramatic gabled forms frame the primary living pavilion, where soaring ceilings, exposed timber detailing, and panoramic glazing create an inviting great room centered around a double-sided stone fireplace. The open-concept living, dining, and kitchen spaces flow effortlessly onto covered terraces and landscaped patios, encouraging a lifestyle that moves naturally between indoors and outdoors throughout every season.

The arrival experience is intentionally understated. Dark stained wood cladding, natural stone walls, and living roof systems allow the residence to blend into the surrounding forest, while a carefully choreographed sequence of pathways, bridges, and glazed corridors gradually reveals the home's dramatic interior spaces. A sculptural floating stair illuminated by a skylight connects the home's multiple levels, bringing daylight into the center of the residence and reinforcing a sense of openness and transparency.

Private bedroom suites are thoughtfully separated from the public gathering spaces, creating quiet retreats immersed within the trees while maintaining strong visual connections to the landscape. Dedicated wellness, recreation, and guest accommodations provide flexibility for both family living and entertaining, making the residence equally suited as a year-round home or luxury mountain getaway.

The material palette reflects the surrounding environment through the use of charred wood siding, natural stone, exposed timber, steel detailing, and warm wood interiors. These durable materials provide a timeless architectural expression while requiring minimal maintenance in the demanding mountain climate. Interior finishes balance refined contemporary design with the warmth and comfort expected of a mountain residence, creating spaces that feel both sophisticated and inviting.

Sustainability is integrated into every aspect of the design. Living roof systems reduce the home's visual impact while enhancing stormwater management and restoring native vegetation. High-performance insulation, triple-pane glazing, passive solar orientation, energy-efficient mechanical systems, and natural daylighting strategies work together to improve comfort, reduce energy consumption, and create a resilient, environmentally responsible home designed for long-term performance.

The Lower Ridge Residence reflects Ward Blake Architects' commitment to designing exceptional luxury mountain homes that celebrate the relationship between architecture and nature. Through careful site integration, timeless craftsmanship, sustainable design strategies, and a deep respect for the landscape, the residence offers an elevated living experience where contemporary architecture and the natural environment exist in perfect harmony.

Location

Teton Village, Wyoming

Project Size

8,837 sq. ft.

Publications

2026 Biophilic Designs