rosenthal Residence
Photography by: Roger Wade
rosenthal residence
Set on a steeply sloping mountain site, the Rosenthal Residence is a custom home shaped directly by the natural topography of the land. Designed by Ward + Blake Architects, the residence demonstrates a site-responsive approach to mountain architecture, using the site's distinctive contours to organize the floor plan, minimize excavation, and create a home that feels naturally anchored to its setting.
The property's undulating terrain forms a subtle “W,” which became the organizing framework for the residence. Service and gathering spaces—including the garage, laundry, kitchen, and dining areas—occupy one leg of the plan. The central entry and living spaces align with the middle of the site, while the private primary suite extends along the opposite leg. This configuration allows each major living space to respond individually to the terrain while capturing expansive eastern mountain views.
The arrival sequence is intentionally compressed before opening dramatically toward the landscape. From the entry, the interior descends into the main living space as the shed roof rises toward the mountains and sky. At the same time, the land falls away beneath the home, allowing elevated decks to appear to float above the hillside. This progression from intimacy to openness is repeated throughout the kitchen, living areas, and primary suite, strengthening the connection between architecture and landscape.
The exterior reinterprets traditional Western materials through a contemporary architectural language. Hand-hewn rectangular log siding with precisely crafted dovetail corners brings warmth and regional character to the home, while tapered western red cedar shingles and low-pitched shed roofs create a refined modern profile. A non-VOC wood preservative allows the exterior materials to weather naturally while supporting long-term durability in a demanding mountain climate.
In contrast to the home's more solid approach façade, the view-facing elevation is composed primarily of expansive glass. Continuous glazing captures panoramic mountain and valley views from the upper-level living spaces, while slender steel deck railings preserve uninterrupted sightlines and enhance the home's indoor-outdoor connection.
Inside, a restrained palette of polished concrete floors, painted gypsum walls, and natural wood ceilings creates a durable yet sophisticated environment suited to high-altitude mountain living. Abundant natural light highlights the warmth and texture of the materials while maintaining a clean, contemporary aesthetic.
The Rosenthal Residence exemplifies Ward + Blake Architects' expertise in custom mountain home design, site-specific residential architecture, and contemporary Western architecture. By allowing topography, views, natural light, and regional materials to shape the design, the home achieves a timeless connection to its mountain landscape.
Location
Wilson, Wyoming
Project Size
6,773 sq. ft.
awards
2012 International Design Awards - Overall Contest Honorable Mention (Architect)