Mountain Living in Vail Valley
Vail’s leading architects, designers, builders, artisans and hospitality leaders define luxury living.
Photo: Courtesy of Antlers at Vail
The pinnacle of high-end, luxury living infused with Old-World charm, this vibrant mountain enclave offers an eclectic mix of adventure, culture and relaxation, making it a year-round haven for discerning residents and world travelers alike.
The Vail housing market is as exclusive as it is competitive, driven by enduring demand and premium pricing. Here, legacy estates and masterful renovations set the tone, while limited new construction adds to the rarity and allure. For those seeking more attainable opportunities, neighboring communities offer a broader range of options, though they too reflect the gravitational pull of Vail’s prestige.
Here, we introduce you to some of the region’s most distinguished professionals—visionary architects, inspired interior designers, expert builders, skilled artisans and hospitality leaders. Together, they shape and elevate Vail’s reputation for excellence, each bringing refined expertise and unwavering commitment to creating extraordinary mountain living.
Harmonious Design
Photo: Courtesy of Berglund
With strategic site planning, BERGLUND ARCHITECTS creates an exquisite private sanctuary that takes optimal advantage of the grand views and beautiful landscape.
How did your design process bring this vision to life?
Most building sites have a combination of positive factors, like breathtaking views, paired with less desirable ones such as highway noise or close neighbors. Masterful architects can capitalize on a property’s strong attributes while strategically mitigating the weak ones through careful house siting and creative architectural design.
We have perfected this art through our immersive on-site Charrette process. Over several days, principals Hans Berglund and Stephanie Lord-Johnson and the team set up camp, complete with tables, chairs and sun canopies. We walk the land at different times to observe the sun’s path, prevailing winds and every subtle shift in view and sound as we sketch different concepts that explore the best options.
Photo: Courtesy of Berglund
How did the surrounding landscape inspire the architecture?
Set in the Vail Valley, this striking Mountain Modern home was shaped entirely by its surroundings. The design masterfully captures sweeping mountain views to the south and the peaceful creek and open space to the east, while screening a nearby neighbor and the highway below.
The great room’s window wall is oriented to open onto expansive sheltered decks, with a stone privacy wall that artfully steps with the grade, grounds the house to the site and anchors the fireplace.
The primary suite, strategically positioned on the east side, embraces mountain views and open space. The primary bath features a stacking door system that opens up to a deck cantilevered over the creek, fully immersing the room in the surrounding private landscape. Every angle, wall and opening works to immerse the home in its landscape.
Were there any standout features that contribute to the home’s distinctive character?
Inspired by the Japanese technique of shou sugi ban, the wood siding was intentionally charred to achieve both its striking aesthetic and the protective benefits of heat treatment. The result is a beautiful, long-lasting exterior with natural resistance to fire, pests and weather.
BERGLUND ARCHITECTS
Hans Berglund, Stephanie Lord-Johnson, AIA, Principals
970-926-4301
Edwards, Colorado
Photo: Courtesy of Berglund
Lofty Vision
Photo: Courtesy of Kasia Karska
Designer/builder KASIA KARSKA DESIGN creates the perfect mountain getaway for a client, his family, his friends and his airplane.
What was the client’s vision, and how did you bring it to life?
Our client envisioned a distinctive mountain retreat with the rare perk of being able to fly in by plane paired with warm, welcoming spaces just minutes from the slopes. Our design focused on creating abundant outdoor living spaces, including a large cowboy-style cauldron fire pit, indoor/outdoor dining areas and plenty of room for friends and family to gather. Inside, we added a spa-like bathroom and opened the space to frame the stunning mountain views—bringing together comfort, connection and the beauty of the outdoors.
How did the home’s location influence your decisions?
Set just below majestic Crested Butte mountain, the site demanded a design that celebrated its dramatic backdrop. Expansive glass walls and windows throughout offer panoramic views in every direction, making the glorious landscape the center of attention.
Photo: Courtesy of Kasia Karska
What was the most challenging part of the process? The most rewarding?
Distance was our biggest logistical hurdle—our Eagle County team and trusted subcontractors traveled extensively to make it happen. Another challenge was ensuring the airplane hangar fit the neighborhood, blending seamlessly with the home rather than standing apart. The payoff? A unified design where reclaimed wood siding and a corten steel roof make the home and hangar feel as though they’ve always belonged in the landscape.
What gave this house that “extra touch”?
We used Yakisugi, a traditional Japanese charred wood, to bring rich texture, visual warmth and exceptional durability to the exterior. Honoring our indoor/outdoor living philosophy, we carried the Yakisugi inside as a striking feature wall. We also imported European triple-pane windows and doors engineered specifically for high mountain winds that open in three ways, including a tilted position for ventilation—allowing fresh air in without flapping.
KASIA KARSKA DESIGN
Kasia Karska, Owner, Lead Designer, General Contractor
970-343-2302
Vail Valley, Colorado
Photo: Courtesy of Kasia Karska
Combined Forces
Photo: Courtesy of Honed Studio
Cody and Kellye O’Kelly, founders of OCG, and partner Allan Arnason join forces with interior designer Bri Potts to launch an exciting new venture.
What is OCG?
Since launching in 2016, OCG has become a powerhouse in Vail Valley’s construction management, design-build and general contracting scene, known for delivering full-service projects with precision and passion. At the end of 2024, Kellye teamed up with interior designer Bri Potts to launch Honed Studio, spotlighting design as its own bold entity.
What is Honed Studio?
Honed Studio is the dynamic collaboration between Kellye and Bri—the merging of two complementary perspectives, strengths and styles—designing spaces that are not only visually striking but also deeply rooted in who our client is, how they live and what truly inspires them. Whenever needed, OCG joins a project to support our client’s design intentions, offering the same trusted design-build services we’ve always provided and a turnkey solution for projects that need it.
Photo: Courtesy of Honed Studio
What sets your collaboration apart in the Vail Valley?
Hands-on, intentional and detail-obsessed—that’s how we build. For each project, we assemble a handpicked team of experienced professionals from framing to plumbing to electrical. On the design side, we bring spaces to life with immersive 3D renderings and drawings.
What’s next for HS x OCG?
With a fresh rebrand underway, we’re excited to share this new chapter with our community. With many major projects already lined up through 2026, we’re gearing up for an incredible run. Plus, we’re eyeing new cities to connect with clients and keep pushing boundaries.
Kellye O’Kelly and Bri Potts
720-454-5394
Vail, Colorado
Cody O’Kelly, Allan Arnason
970-470-9139
Vail, Colorado
Photo: Courtesy of Honed Studio
Red Sky Ranch
Photo: Courtesy of NDG Architecture
The talented team at NDG ARCHITECTURE transforms a challenging site into a refined retreat where sleek modern design meets the natural beauty of the mountains.
Tell us more about this impressive project.
Referred to us by a previous client, this project called for a mountain contemporary home with clean lines and simple forms designed to capture sweeping views east toward Vail. While the client had some ideas, she entrusted me with creative freedom to craft a design that truly connects with the landscape.
Photo: Courtesy of NDG Architecture
What were some challenges, and how did you overcome them?
The site’s shape and narrow street access demanded thoughtful orientation to maximize those coveted vistas. By working carefully with the existing topography, we created a home that feels perfectly integrated with its surroundings. The most rewarding moment was when the client told us, “It’s better than I envisioned.”
How did you approach outdoor living?
The home expands into a welcoming outdoor space—a partially covered elevated deck with an outdoor kitchen and fireplace. Steps lead down to a walking path and a generous fire pit, perfect for gatherings beneath the mountain sky.
What are your favorite features of the home?
The dramatic staircase is a stunning focal point, open to the living area and framed by floor-to-ceiling glass showcasing breathtaking views of Vail. The lower level is an entertainer’s dream, featuring a custom bar, grotto-style wine room and a golf and sports simulator.
NDG ARCHITECTURE
Bill Nutkins, Principal and Founder
970-471-0698
Edwards, Colorado
Photo: Courtesy of NDG Architecture
Trusted Partnership
Photo: Courtesy of Jacobs + Interiors
Yvonne Jacobs, principal, designer at JACOBS + INTERIORS returns for another round with cherished clients to revamp their family vacation home.
Tell us the story of this beloved property.
This lakefront property has been in the family for generations. It was the backdrop for summers full of sailing, laughter and milestone celebrations. With grown children and grandkids now part of the picture, it was time for an upgrade. The old structure came down, making way for a home designed for the next chapter—easy living, big gatherings and quiet moments alike.
Having collaborated on six or seven projects with this family, we knew exactly how to capture their style. Inspiration came straight from the lake itself—its calm, timeless beauty guided our palette and design choices. We wanted something serene, classic and never kitschy.
Photo: Courtesy of Jacobs + Interiors
How did you bring that vision to life, and what stands out most to you?
The home is all on one level for ease, with a chef’s kitchen, pantry packed with amenities and an herb garden just outside. Expansive doors open to outdoor living spaces, including a lake-view bar that’s our favorite feature. White oak finishes, limestone fireplaces and playful bronze chess-piece barstools add character without fussiness. The most rewarding part? Giving cherished clients, and friends, a family retreat that will welcome generations to come.
Yvonne Jacobs, Principal Designer
970-390-4539
Edwards, Colorado
Photo: Courtesy of Jacobs + Interiors
Meadow Brook Masterpiece
Photo: Courtesy of Vintage Woods
TUCKER JOHNSON ARCHITECTS and VINTAGE WOODS take on a challenging site to create a distinctive modern mountain beauty.
What was the approach for this project?
Our approach centered around taking advantage of the site’s constraints—an extreme slope backing up to public open space—rather than allowing them to limit the design. Guided by principles of simplicity, functionality and the use of natural materials, we envisioned a light-filled home with clean lines and carefully chosen materials that both complement and contrast with the surrounding environment.
Photo: Courtesy of Vintage Woods
How did your expertise play a key role in bringing the project to life?
Tucker Johnson Architect’s site-specific design and attention to materiality were key in ensuring that the home met the needs of the client while integrating organically with the environment. The selection of a warm, earthy palette featuring custom tones of Vintage Woods’ thermally modified hemlock siding, soffits and interior ceilings (chosen for both durability and natural mountain aesthetic) were instrumental to the project’s success.
What were the biggest challenges and rewards?
The most challenging part of the process, navigated expertly with partners Kienzle Construction, was navigating the slope of the lot while ensuring the design was both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The most rewarding part was seeing how the final design embraced the natural beauty of the location while providing the homeowner with a usable, serene living space.
Nick Swanepoel, Founder
970-524-4041
Gypsum, Colorado
Tucker Johnson, Founder and Principal
720-512-5922
Evergreen, Colorado
Photo: Courtesy of Vintage Woods
Distinctive Design
Photo: Courtesy of Greenauer Design Group, Inc.
The experienced team at GREENAUER DESIGN GROUP, Inc. executes fresh designs that balance refined elegance with the warmth of effortless living.
What serves as inspiration for your designs?
Our inspiration always begins with each client’s individuality. Regardless of the project’s scale, our goal is to complement the architecture to create timeless, deeply personal interiors and a harmonious connection between indoor/outdoor living with distinctive landscape design.
How does your expertise play a key role?
With over 25 years of experience we integrate form, function and artistry. Our team curates bespoke materials, architectural details, custom furnishings, and layering in handcrafted pieces that make each project distinctive. The result is a space that is as functional as it is beautiful.
Photo: Courtesy of Greenauer Design Group, Inc.
Do you use any unique materials, finishes or techniques?
Every element is carefully considered, from hand-finished wood, artisanal stone, custom lighting and exclusively sourced fabrics. We select materials that tell a story, ensuring each home is both visually captivating and rich with character and individuality.
What is your favorite part of the process?
The most rewarding moment is always the reveal, when our clients see their vision brought to life, perfectly aligned and elevated beyond their expectations. We also love the element of surprise that the final layer of design brings-with an artfully curated accessory package, featuring unique handcrafted pieces with distinct textures and shapes, many are one-of-a-kind, to add a special touch that personalizes the space.
Melissa Greenauer, Owner Principal Designer
970-477-1783
Vail, Colorado
Photo: Courtesy of Greenauer Design Group, Inc.
Stylish Renewal
Photo: Courtesy of LA Studio & Co
A renovation by LA STUDIO & CO results in a fresh Mountain Modern design that evokes a warm, inviting feel.
How did this project come to life?
Our client had owned the home for years and decided it was time to expand and modernize. The renovation added two new wings: a sprawling outdoor patio atop a golf cart garage and a luxurious primary suite with a theatre room and golf simulator below. Naturally, once the new design was in place, it inspired updates throughout the home, giving every space a fresh, cohesive feel.
What was the most rewarding part of the process?
Watching the home transform from the ground up, and seeing dated furniture removed, and walls and floors demoed to the studs and then rebuilt with every detail carefully considered. By the end, the home felt completely renewed—stylish, warm and ready for the family to enjoy.
Photo: Courtesy of LA Studio & Co
How did your unique expertise play a role?
This project demanded creative problem-solving at every turn. Innovative ideas, layering texture, warmth and style through design details and furnishings accentuated the architectural updates and pulled the entire home together beautifully.
What were the standout moments in your opinion?
We absolutely love the primary shower—the window and bookmarked stone create a remarkable showpiece. Other highlights include a sleek rolled-steel fireplace and an intricate etched-tile backsplash at the main bar.
Addie Pecord, Owner
970-343-6763
Edwards, Colorado
Photo: Courtesy of LA Studio & Co
Simply Exceptional
Photo: Courtesy of Antlers at Vail
Looking for a memorable getaway in Vail? Look no further than ANTLERS AT VAIL. For over 50 years this unique property has been providing hospitality with heart and soul.
How does Antlers at Vail stand out from the competition?
Our location really says it all—right in the heart of Lionshead, at the base of Vail Mountain, creekside and just steps from the gondola. Add to that our down-to-earth, friendly team and a refreshingly simple approach: no resort fees, no hidden charges and complimentary parking when you book direct.
Photo: Courtesy of Antlers at Vail
Antlers is known for being community-minded. What does that mean?
For us, it’s all about connection. In winter, we host wine-and-cheese receptions that feel more like upscale gatherings than standard happy hours. Our complimentary shuttle makes getting around town easy during ski season. But more than anything, it’s the vibe—our team, our guests and a culture built on genuine care.
What makes a stay at Antlers at Vail so special?
Every stay feels personal. Our spacious condos are all individually owned and decorated, giving each space character you won’t find in cookie-cutter resorts. Outside, our pool and natural stone hot tubs are guest favorites, offering a perfect place to relax after a day on the slopes or trails.
The property itself has history and charm, with incredible views, a newly remodeled lobby and a few quirky touches that make it memorable. It’s this combination of comfort, character and location that keeps guests coming back.
Magdalena King, General Manager
970-476-2471
Vail, Colorado
Photo: Courtesy of Antlers at Vail
