Durango and Southwest Colorado’s incredible setting has a significant influence on the architecture of many homes in our region. From choosing the building location on the lot to the design and materials used, homes are often designed to complement the geography, climate, and views of the San Juan Mountains. Whether remodeling or building from the ground up, the Mountain Modern aesthetic is well represented in our unique area.
What is Mountain Modern Architecture?
“Mountain Modern” is a given name describing an architectural style, similar to Mid-Century Modern, Victorian, Farmhouse/Ranch, and Tudor. Each of these styles has distinct floorplans, roof lines, symmetry, building materials, and finishes throughout. Mountain Modern homes typically have sloped roofs to accommodate snow loads, expansive windows framing the views, durable and natural building materials to withstand the four seasons, elevated foundations that keep the home above wet, snowy, and muddy grounds, darker and neutral color palettes, and well-designed outdoor living spaces.
Mountain Modern homes feature sleek lines and open floorplans, seamlessly blending the kitchen, living, dining, and outdoor living spaces. Vaulted ceilings with floor-to-ceilings windows that maximize natural light and views are also common. Many homes offer large sliding or accordion folding glass doors that adjoin indoor and outdoor living areas to take advantage of our ideal climate.
What Kind of Materials Are Used in Mountain Modern Architecture?
Combinations of natural wood, rock, metal, glass, and concrete are found on the exterior and interior of Mountain Modern homes. These raw materials help merge the natural surroundings with everyday living by bringing the outside in. Rock and metal also act as fire-resistant siding material, which are important considerations in Southwest Colorado.
Inside, Mountain Modern homes often feature quartz or granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and clean, contemporary finishes and fixtures in black, bronze, gold, or brushed nickel. Tile floors, backsplashes, and showers paired with simple white or earth-toned paint create a warm, understated look. A fireplace (gas or wood) with a rock or metal surround is a beautiful addition that serves as a great heat source in the winter months. Other upgrades we see in Mountain Modern homes include dog washes, large pantries, oversized garages, stand-alone soaking tubs, exposed wood or industrial metal beams, main level primary suites, and energy-efficient systems and appliances.
If you’re interested in looking at available Mountain Modern homes in Durango or the greater Southwest Colorado area, or any other style of home our area has to offer, please don’t hesitate to contact Deven, Max, and Katie from the Durango Team at The Wells Group.
