Banner Elk Modern Mountain Lodge

Location: Banner Elk, NC

Area: 2,128 SF

Project Team: Refine Design Architecture

‍

Project Description:

Perched on a ridgeline at 5,000 feet, this residence serves to capture the magnificent views of the mountain range across the valley. The design is characterized by a minimalist aesthetic, utilizing clean lines and an open-plan layout to create a harmonious connection between the interior and the exterior environments.

Upon entry, visitors are greeted with the view by way of floor to ceiling windows and an open concept floor plan. A monolithic stone wall pierces through the space to define public, entertaining space from private, sleeping quarters. Exposed wood structure and stone cladding highlight the natural, raw materials of the surrounding environment. The design aims to create moments of intimate, cozy space while admiring the expansive landscape.

A standout feature of this house is the expansive window wall that faces the breathtaking mountain range. This wall, composed of floor-to-ceiling glass panels, serves as a transparent barrier that invites natural light into the living spaces while offering uninterrupted views of the scenic landscape. The window wall not only enhances the visual appeal of the house but also establishes a strong indoor-outdoor relationship, making the stunning mountain vistas an integral part of the daily living experience.

Complementing the modern design is the thin roof profile with exposed wood beams, which adds a touch of rustic charm to the overall aesthetic. The sleek roofline extends outward, providing ample shade and shelter to the outdoor deck areas, thus creating comfortable spaces for relaxation and entertainment. The exposed wood beams, crafted from sturdy timber, highlight the architectural focus on natural materials and craftsmanship, giving the house a warm and inviting feel.

The exterior of the house is clad in natural cedar siding and stone veneer, further emphasizing its connection to the surrounding environment. The cedar siding, with its rich, warm tones, brings a sense of organic beauty to the structure, blending effortlessly with the greenery and rocky terrain of the mountainside. The stone veneer, used as an accent material, adds texture and depth to the façade, enhancing the visual interest and providing a sense of solidity and permanence.

The design also features a series of terraces and outdoor living areas that take full advantage of the sloped site. These spaces are thoughtfully integrated into the landscape, providing various vantage points to enjoy the stunning views and the tranquility of the mountain setting. The use of natural materials extends to these outdoor areas, with stone-paved pathways and wooden decking creating a seamless transition between the built environment and the natural surroundings.

In summary, this modern mountain house is a testament to thoughtful and innovative design, combining contemporary architectural elements with natural materials to create a dwelling that is both aesthetically pleasing and functionally integrated with its environment. The expansive window wall, thin roof profile with exposed wood beams, and the use of cedar siding and stone veneer all contribute to a harmonious and inviting home that celebrates its mountain setting.

‍