25-011 Jordanelle Overlook
Our clients, a California-based couple, envisioned a Utah retreat that preserved the effortless indoor-outdoor lifestyle they’ve grown to love. While they understood the need to respond to Utah’s alpine climate, maintaining their Californian spirit of openness and connection to the landscape was central to their initial vision. The resulting design also serves as a long-term investment – a place for our clients to gather with family while also thoughtfully accommodating short-term rental use.
Site Analysis
Located a stone’s throw from Deer Valley, the site is defined by expansive views of the Jordanelle Reservoir and the surrounding Wasatch Mountains. Early team site walks revealed both opportunity and constraint: while the views are extraordinary, neighboring homes sit in close proximity to stepped roadways running east to west. The design carefully negotiates privacy and panoramic views - one wing of the home is oriented towards the reservoir, while the other reaches toward the upper Deer Valley peaks and the open sky beyond. A split main level subtly lifts the structure above the southern neighbor, preserving view corridors while screening adjacent development.
Materiality & Roof Form
Careful attention to material selection and detailing allowed us to approach the gabled roof form with our a modern sensibilities. Generous multi-story windows are framed within these forms, showcasing panoramic views and strengthening the home’s connection to the surrounding site.
The material palette responds gracefully to the alpine setting, calling for a balanced composition of wood, stone, and metal. A metal roof crowns the structure, while flagstone grounds it into the hillside. Hemlock wood siding, stained to complement bronze metal accents, brings warmth and texture. Wood-clad windows further soften the exterior façade.
Interiors
Inside, the materials continue the dialogue between warmth and durability – suited for both private retreat and rental use. Expansive windows foster seamless transitions to outdoor living spaces, including layered decks, fire features, and spa amenities. The overall aesthetic is refined yet resilient, designed to age gracefully within its mountain environment.
