Set within the hairpin turn of a steep mountain road, the Martin-Pacifico Residence transforms a challenging mountainside site into an opportunity for innovative, site-responsive architecture. Designed by Ward|Blake Architects, this custom luxury mountain home demonstrates how thoughtful planning, advanced structural engineering, and contemporary design can work together to create a residence that responds naturally to its environment while maximizing panoramic valley views, natural daylight, and long-term sustainability.

Rather than resisting the site's dramatic topography, the home's design embraces it. The architectural program is carefully organized to take full advantage of the steep slope, placing the primary living spaces on the upper level where expansive floor-to-ceiling windows capture sweeping mountain and valley views while welcoming abundant natural light throughout the day. Bedrooms and private living quarters occupy the lower level, creating a comfortable separation between public and private spaces while maintaining a strong visual connection to the surrounding landscape.

A key feature of the residence is its carefully engineered torsion-box foundation, which also functions as a structural retaining wall. This innovative solution allows the home to nestle efficiently into the hillside while accommodating local setback requirements and the region's seismic conditions. By minimizing excavation and preserving the natural contours of the site, the structural system reflects Ward|Blake Architects' commitment to environmentally responsive design and thoughtful mountain home planning.

The architecture is expressed as three distinct yet harmonious volumes that step naturally with the terrain. Two larger cedar-clad forms rest upon substantial stone bases, while a central circulation volume defined by contemporary metal panels and the main entry creates a visual connection between them. This composition balances the warmth of natural materials with clean modern detailing, producing a timeless expression of contemporary mountain architecture that feels both refined and deeply rooted in its setting.

Inside, a sculptural floating steel staircase serves as the architectural centerpiece, connecting the home's public and private spaces while reinforcing the open, light-filled character of the interior. A carefully curated material palette—including hardwood flooring, maple cabinetry and trim, polished concrete floors, and maple plank ceilings—creates warmth, durability, and understated elegance. Expansive glazing throughout the great room, kitchen, dining areas, and primary suite continually frames the surrounding mountain landscape, making the extraordinary views an integral part of everyday living.

Sustainability is embedded throughout the home's design. Its orientation maximizes passive solar gain, while generous glazing, efficient structural systems, and durable natural materials contribute to long-term energy performance and occupant comfort. Every architectural decision reflects Ward|Blake Architects' philosophy of designing homes that respond intelligently to both climate and place while minimizing environmental impact.

The Martin-Pacifico Residence exemplifies Ward|Blake Architects' expertise in luxury residential architecture, steep-slope home design, contemporary mountain architecture, and site-responsive custom homes. Through innovative engineering, environmentally conscious planning, timeless materials, and a deep respect for the surrounding landscape, the residence transforms a challenging mountainside site into an elegant and enduring mountain retreat that celebrates the natural beauty of Jackson Hole.

Location

Jackson, Wyoming

Project Size

3,197 sq. ft.