Living the Legacy: Multi-Generational Design in Mountain Homes

3005 Trails Edge, a ski-in/ski-out estate in Steamboat Springs, offered at $20,000,000. Photo: Dan Tullos, courtesy of The Agency Steamboat.

In mountain communities across the West, the real estate market is undergoing a subtle but meaningful shift. Buyers are no longer focused solely on ski-in, ski-out access or seasonal escapes. Instead, demand is growing for legacy properties designed to support multiple generations across many chapters of life.

This evolution is especially evident among buyers in the 45–60 age range. Many are parents with grown children who are beginning families of their own, inspiring a move away from short-term vacation thinking toward a more enduring vision. These homeowners are expanding their expectations, seeking residences that can welcome extended family comfortably while remaining adaptable over time. To support this lifestyle, today’s mountain homes are incorporating these architectural and design features that prioritize flexibility, privacy and togetherness.

3005 Trails Edge spans over 11,000 square feet with resort-style amenities built in. Photo: Dan Tullos, courtesy of The Agency Steamboat.

Private Guest and Family Quarters

Luxury mountain homes increasingly include dedicated guest wings or separate structures, like the River Drum Trail property seen above, designed for extended stays. With multiple bedrooms, baths, kitchens and private entrances, these spaces allow family members and guests to enjoy independence without sacrificing connection to the main home.

Thoughtful Zoning and Separation

Designers are emphasizing clear separation between primary living areas, owner suites and guest or family quarters. This intentional zoning enhances privacy, minimizes noise and allows different generations to move through the home at their own pace.

Today’s market reflects a new expression of mountain living: a search for homes that balance privacy with togetherness, recreation with comfort and immediate enjoyment with long-term vision. As Western mountain markets continue to evolve, legacy living is emerging as a defining hallmark of thoughtful, enduring design.

42375 River Drum Trail is a custom legacy estate within the gates of Marabou Ranch. Photo: Dan Tullos courtesy of The Agency Steamboat.

Multiple Primary Suites

Rather than a single owner’s suite, many homes now feature multiple primary bedrooms to accommodate parents, adult children, their families and long-term guests. Each suite is given equal consideration, balancing comfort, privacy and access to amenities.

Dual Entertaining Spaces

Separate entertaining zones such as game rooms or media lounges positioned away from sleeping quarters allow activity and rest to coexist. These spaces support lively gatherings without disrupting the quieter rhythms of daily life.

A separate guest house at 42375 River Drum Trail with two bedrooms and a full kitchen. Photo: Dan Tullos, Courtesy of The Agency Steamboat.

Elevated Bunk Rooms

Bunk rooms have evolved into thoughtfully designed sleeping spaces that accommodate multiple guests while maintaining a sense of fun and intention. They maximize capacity without sacrificing comfort or design integrity.

Purpose-Built Gear Storage

Storage extends well beyond standard closets, with dedicated spaces tailored to mountain living. Custom ski rooms with boot, jacket and glove dryers, along with generous storage for bikes, Nordic gear, fishing equipment and seasonal gear, ensure the entire family’s lifestyle is well supported year-round.

This Marabou Ranch home offers private fly fishing, equestrian facilities, riverfront amenities, miles of trails, and a private ski lounge. Courtesy of The Agency Steamboat.

For more on the properties featured in this article visit 42375 River Drum Trail, located within Marabou Ranch and 3005 Trails Edge located in Steamboat Springs, Colorado.