Located at a prominent downtown intersection in Jackson, Wyoming, the Lyman Building was one of the town’s early planned mixed-use developments, combining commercial and residential uses within an efficient, contextually responsive design. The project demonstrates Ward Blake Architects’ approach to mixed-use architecture in Jackson Hole, balancing zoning constraints, budget considerations, urban density, and long-term economic value.

Designed to maximize the potential of its downtown site, the Lyman Building optimizes leasable floor area while creating functional, naturally lit spaces for both businesses and residents. A daylight basement carved into the site allows full-height windows to bring natural light into the lower-level apartments, transforming below-grade space into comfortable residential units and making efficient use of the property’s available building area.

Commercial and residential uses are carefully integrated throughout the development. Three commercial spaces occupy flexible, two-story loft-like interiors designed to accommodate changing tenant needs over time. A shared parking strategy further improves site efficiency, with commercial customers primarily using the parking area during business hours and residents using it predominantly during evenings and overnight. This complementary approach allows multiple uses to coexist while reducing the amount of land dedicated exclusively to parking.

Situated between two active streets, the building responds to multiple urban frontages while drawing inspiration from the vernacular architecture of Jackson Hole. A barn-like form gives the development a familiar regional character and helps the mixed-use building relate to its mountain-town setting.

The exterior material palette combines wood shingles, steel railings, and bronze hardware, selected for durability, low maintenance, and compatibility with the architectural character of the region. Two-story structural wood columns establish a strong vertical rhythm that helps reduce the perceived scale of the building, while open metal railings introduce transparency and negative space to further break down the larger elevations.

The Lyman Building reflects Ward Blake Architects’ commitment to mixed-use development, urban infill, efficient site planning, and contextual architecture. By combining flexible commercial spaces, daylight-filled residences, shared parking, and regionally appropriate design within a compact downtown site, the project offers an early model for thoughtful mixed-use development in a growing mountain community.

Its continued success as both a commercial and residential property demonstrates the enduring value of adaptable planning and architecture designed to respond simultaneously to economic, functional, and community needs.

Location

Jackson, Wyoming

Project Size

8,500 sq. ft.

awards

1996 Wyoming Chapter of the American Institute of Architects - Honorable Mention