Client Brief:
The clients sought a permanent residence that would connect their family to the untamed beauty of the surrounding wilderness, providing both comfort and practicality. They wanted a home that would maximize views of the forest, harmonize with the natural environment, and offer a sanctuary deep within the Ponderosa pine forest.
Location:
Accessible only by a long dirt road, the house is located over a mile above sea level in a small clearing within the vast Ponderosa pine forest. The term "Malapai" originates from the Americanization of "malpaís," translating to bad terrain in Spanish, typically referring to land characterized by eroded volcanic rock. The site’s volcanic rock-strewn terrain, coupled with the remote location, presented both challenges and opportunities. The home needed to minimize its impact by reducing tree removal, while maximizing views of the forest and wildlife. Protection from potential forest fires was also a critical consideration in the design.
Design Solution:
"Malapai Tower House" sits on a modest, flat clearing at the crest of a hill to preserve the surrounding trees and provide panoramic views of the wilderness. Anchored by a double-height living space, the house opens onto an elevated patio offering 180-degree views of the forest, where wildlife sightings are frequent. The three-story tower serves as an elevated lookout, offering stunning views of snow, storms, and the surrounding landscape, while also acting as a sentinel for potential forest fires. The exterior materials were chosen to integrate with the site’s natural features. Stones collected from the site form the foundation skirt, grounding the home and hardening it against embers as a fire protection measure. The rusted steel siding reflects the iron-rich dirt, while the Class A fire-rated standing seam roof and wood siding echo the colors and textures of the surrounding pine trees. These elements create a cohesive aesthetic that merges with the forested environment. Inside, radiant heated concrete floors ensure warmth during the cold winters, while the double-height living space benefits from passive solar gain. A large wood-burning fireplace adds warmth and ambiance to the central living area. The kitchen is the heart of the home, designed for preparing meals over fire sourced from the land. A bridge spans above the kitchen, providing access to the upper stories of the tower while offering task lighting for the island below.
Result:
"Malapai Tower House" harmonizes with the landscape, using materials and forms that reflect the volcanic terrain and forest, while offering protection against fire risks. The elevated tower allows for breathtaking views of the Ponderosa pine forest, while the interior provides warmth, functionality, and a connection to the wild surroundings.
