This level of attention was well worth it to create a residence aligned with such rarified surroundings, says Ugorowski. “This is one of the most amazing pieces of property I’ve been to, period,” he states. “Normally, in Big Sky, you don’t get such commanding views of the Gallatin River and Canyon.” (In contrast, the area’s coveted sight lines typically look up at the ski runs instead.) Capturing the stunning panoramas became a major goal of the modern structure he conceived, with the main living space overlooking the canyon and two wings radiating off an axis at angles that maximize additional vistas. There are three stories, the third composed of an observatory and rooftop terraces, with second-level guest quarters flanked by 65-to-75-foot evergreens “for a tree-house effect,” notes the architect.
Multiple spaces are designed to frame the sweeping surroundings, including a glass-walled second-floor bridge and a stairwell atrium, amid an array of oversize windows and sliders throughout. “The views were so incredible that we even ended up incorporating a rooftop deck after framing,” adds Riordan of the evolving design. Other spaces also pivoted as the homeowners’ needs changed, including what was first jokingly dubbed a “kitty courtyard” for their four beloved cats until it transitioned into a nursery when they welcomed their daughter.
Board-formed concrete, steel, glass and hemlock compose the material palette, “with the aim of being aesthetically pleasing and as low-maintenance as possible,” Ugorowski says. And the interior design coordinates neatly: It’s modern, minimal and fuss-free. “They wanted clean lines, no pillows to fluff and absolutely no clutter,” notes Anderson of their clients’ mindset, quipping, “At one point, a tissue holder on the counter was considered too much accessorizing.”
Visual interest instead comes in the form of textures and colors, as the palette isn’t at all neutral, adds Houser, pointing to eye-catching accents like the living area’s yellow sofas and patinated, teal-toned steel panels, a shade and material that repeats in the kitchen. A mix of dark walnut and pops of light oak brings in warmth, balance and a bit of brightness. See how the dining table contrasts with the room’s darker surfaces, for instance. Off-white plaster walls factor into this formula as well, Houser notes, “as there’s so much depth and soul in plaster, as opposed to drywall and paint.” Canyon views, however, remain the home’s focal point, with even the most vibrant interior hues reading as references to the landscape. “Bright yellow and teal are found in the wildflowers and skies and, while this isn’t a literal interpretation, these colors play well with what’s outside,” observes Anderson.
In the living area, the fireplace wall’s board-formed concrete, the work of Davis & Sons Construction, creates a cool-toned backdrop. Steel shelving and patinated metal panels, all fabricated by Bensley Sheet Metal, enliven the room’s envelope.
Rich walnut cabinetry installed by Mountain High Woodworks is combined with teal metal fronts in the streamlined kitchen. The island is topped with Ijen Blue quartzite while perimeter counters of Caesarstone surround a Wolf range.