Client Brief:
The clients wanted a one-of-a-kind retreat that embraced the natural beauty of Northwest Montana. The home needed to offer a peaceful connection to the surrounding forest, rivers, lakes, and mountains, while also providing a sanctuary for family and guests who came there to ski, snowboard, fish, hike and more.
Location:
Situated near the Rocky Mountains and an hour south of the Canadian border, the home is located in Whitefish, Montana, in a region known for its pine forests, rivers, lakes, and proximity to Glacier National Park. The area’s rugged wilderness and wildfire risk in the Wildfire-Urban Interface (WUI) posed both design inspiration and challenges, requiring careful attention to fire safety and climate integration.
Design Solution:
Inspired by the crisscrossing mountains of Glacier National Park, we designed Shadowbox with a striking silhouette that captures the essence of Montana’s wilderness. The exterior is clad in black standing seam metal siding with alternating rib patterns, echoing the bark of surrounding pine trees and mirroring the shadows cast by the forest. The recessed hemlock-clad entry and covered patio provide a welcoming and functional space, sheltering visitors from snow and rain. To harmonize with the natural environment, the covered patio includes a sauna, fire pit, and sunken hot tub, creating intimate spaces to enjoy the wilderness, whether stargazing under the Montana sky or soaking in the peaceful forest views. Fire resilience was paramount, and we incorporated a Class A metal roof assembly, non-combustible siding, WUI-compliant decking, and minimized fire-prone building elements. The landscape design also created defensible space around the house, reducing the wildfire threat. Inside, the great room features a soaring 25-foot ceiling with windows on all sides, flooding the space with natural light and framing views of the towering pine trees. The open floor plan includes two en suite bedrooms and two bunk rooms, offering ample space for family and guests to relax after exploring Montana’s natural beauty.
Result:
"Shadowbox" combines modern luxury with the natural splendor of the Montana wilderness. The home provides fire resilience, stunning views, and thoughtfully designed spaces creating a refuge from the environment while re-energizing the clients and their guests for their next adventure into the wild.
