A stunning new residence in Wyoming's remote Alta community showcases how modern architecture can harmoniously blend with rugged natural surroundings. The Alta North Residence, designed by Prospect Studio, combines earthy and industrial materials to create what architects describe as "a statement of unity between people and the landscape they inhabit." The 4,136-square-foot home serves as a retreat for a Missouri family of five, positioned dramatically on the edge of a national forest about 40 miles from the popular ski town of Jackson.
The project began with an intriguing design challenge when the client, inspired by Philip Johnson's signature approach to transparency, asked the Wyoming-based firm how to create a warm, welcoming glass house capable of withstanding the region's harsh climate. This request sparked a collaborative design process that would ultimately defy conventional architectural approaches. Prospect Studio, co-founded by John Carney, a former partner of Carney Logan Burke (now CLB Architects), embarked on exploring various glass structure iterations suitable for Wyoming's extreme weather conditions, including heavy winter snowfall.
The design process, which began in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, faced significant challenges as construction costs surged and supply chains were disrupted. These conditions forced the architectural team to be resourceful at every turn, from sourcing materials to optimizing interior space. The team carefully considered how the home would sit on the land and relate to nearby wetlands, ultimately conceiving a low-lying, bent bar structure with a flat, overhanging roof as the main house, complemented by a box-shaped garage set off to the side.
The residence's layout thoughtfully mimics the gentle curves of a nearby creek while paying homage to the area's historic homesteads, which traditionally consisted of multiple buildings. A wooden boardwalk runs between the two main structures, serving as an "organizing datum" that connects the different elements of the property. This design approach creates a sense of movement and flow that reflects the natural landscape's organic patterns.
Exterior materials were carefully selected for their durability, low maintenance requirements, and natural color palette. The walls feature a striking combination of concrete, Corten weathering steel, reclaimed timber, and Capolavoro stone, while cedar lines the soffits. A recessed entrance provides essential shelter during Wyoming's frequent inclement weather, demonstrating the practical considerations that influenced every design decision.
Inside, the home features a central living space flanked by two distinct wings. One wing houses the primary suite, while the other contains what the architects describe as a "train-car" bunk room, three guest suites, and a cozy den. Floor-to-ceiling glazing throughout the interior provides immersive views of the surrounding landscape, fulfilling the client's original vision for transparency while maintaining warmth and comfort.
The main living area showcases an open-plan design with kitchen, dining area, and lounge space. Curtain walls line two sides of the room, an element directly inspired by collages created by Mies van der Rohe in the 1930s while designing a house in Jackson that was never actually built. This historical reference adds architectural depth to the contemporary design. The social area is cleverly separated from the private wings by board-formed concrete dividers that integrate functional elements including a kitchen pantry, fireplace, and pocket bar.
Interior finishes continue the theme of blending earthy and industrial materials, featuring walnut, cedar, and stone alongside concrete and metal elements. The primary suite includes a live-edge walnut desk and lounge seating strategically oriented toward views of the wetlands. A pass-through closet leads to the bathroom, where designers incorporated a vanity positioned against a large window to maximize the connection with the natural surroundings.
Outdoor living spaces were designed with the same attention to the relationship between built and natural environments. The home features a simple patio with a fire pit, along with a rooftop "viewing terrace" atop the garage equipped with lounge furniture and a hot tub. These spaces provide opportunities to enjoy Wyoming's dramatic seasonal changes and spectacular mountain views.
According to Prospect Studio, the Alta North Residence exemplifies how a "destination home can epitomize personal style, complement its environment, and remain materially and economically resourceful." The project demonstrates successful collaboration between client and architect, resulting in architecture that is "both visually arresting and deeply rooted in its surroundings." The home stands as proof that contemporary design can respond sensitively to challenging climates and remote locations while maintaining the transparency and openness that initially inspired the project.
The project team included Carl Kohut as project architect and Matt Thackray as principal, with interior design by Laurie Demetrio Interiors and construction by New West Building Company. Other recent Wyoming projects showcasing similar approaches to regional architecture include a dwelling in Alta by Lever Architecture wrapped in weathering steel and accoya wood, and a Teton Village house by CLB Architects that draws inspiration from Swiss chalets and local building traditions.
