Architecture & Interiors
Blurred Boundaries
A Colorado ranch house celebrates its mountain views with living spaces that extend to the great outdoors

ARCHITECTURE: Rich Carr, CCY Architects, ccyarchitects.com
CONSTRUCTION: Todd Habermann, New Age Homes, 970-963-4362


Green Is Good

For Rich Carr and his colleagues at CCY Architects, thinking from a sustainable point of view is a given. “We like to think of sustainability as an integral part of good design,” he says. At the same time, says Carr, elements aren’t chosen purely for their green attributes. “Materials need to feel like they are a good fit in the West and will withstand the test of time,” he adds. This project, he points out, is a prime example of that philosophy. Some of its green elements include:

•    Passive solar design Arizona sandstone, used indoors and out, is cool in the summer and retains heat in the winter.
•    Cross ventilation Sliding-glass doors that flank the main living area do more than allow easy access to the north courtyard and south terrace; they also permit mountain breezes to flow throughout the heart of the home.
•    Hot-water solar system Solar panels positioned next to the lap pool keep the water temperature at a comfortable level.
•    Reclaimed materials Rescued log columns and ceiling beams play a prominent role in this home’s architectural plan.