Located on the valley floor along the banks of the Wood River, the Wood River Residence is a custom mountain home designed to embrace its riverfront setting and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Ward + Blake Architects shaped the residence around a strong connection to nature, combining expansive indoor-outdoor living spaces, high-performance building systems, and an honest palette of concrete, wood, and glass.

A broad floating roof extends across both interior and exterior spaces, visually dissolving the boundary between the home and the landscape. Inspired by the site's mature tree canopies and the dramatic ravines of the nearby mountains, the architecture opens outward to frame views, natural light, and the changing character of the surrounding environment.

Water is central to both the experience and environmental performance of the residence. An existing natural pond was integrated into the site design and utilized as part of the home's ground-source heat pump system, connecting the property's natural resources with its energy-efficient mechanical strategy. The pond also strengthens the relationship between architecture, water, and landscape.

The material palette emphasizes authenticity and durability. Board-formed concrete provides thermal mass and a strong connection to the earth, while natural wood introduces warmth and texture. Materials are expressed in their natural state, reinforcing Ward + Blake Architects' commitment to material honesty and site-responsive architecture.

Designed for exceptional performance in a demanding mountain climate, the residence features triple-pane high-performance glazing, R-30 insulated walls, and an R-60 roof assembly that create a highly efficient thermal envelope. A ground-source heat pump provides heating and cooling through hydronic radiant floors, while a supplemental fresh-air system helps moderate rapid temperature changes. Heat recovery ventilators (HRVs) further support indoor air quality and energy efficiency throughout the home.

The Wood River Residence exemplifies Ward + Blake Architects' expertise in sustainable residential architecture, luxury custom home design, energy-efficient mountain homes, and biophilic design. Through high-performance construction, natural materials, innovative geothermal systems, and a seamless relationship between indoor and outdoor living, the residence creates an environmentally responsive retreat deeply connected to its riverfront landscape.

Location

Sun Valley, Idaho

Project Size

6,622 sq.ft.

awards

2017 IDA (International Design Awards), Conceptual Bldg./Pro - Honorable Mention

2025 RTF (Rethinking the Future Awards), Private Res. (Small-Med.)(Concept) - Second Award - Runner Up

Publications

2026 Biophilic Designs