A ski-in, ski-out family lodge in Big Sky, Montana, has been named a finalist in the 8th annual GRAY Awards. The project, called Vista, competes in the “On the Boards” category for buildings still under construction. It blends modern design with the rugged alpine environment, offering a quiet retreat near the slopes.
The residence sits on a rocky scree field, requiring specialized engineering to anchor it securely. Micro-piles were drilled into the ground for stability, while geothermal wells and a rainwater collection system minimize its environmental footprint. The design uses collected runoff for outdoor watering and geothermal systems to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures.
Design rooted in nature and memory
The lodge’s style reflects Japanese and Scandinavian contemporary influences, focusing on simplicity and quality. Materials like Hermosa Limestone, charred cedar, and whitewashed spruce echo the natural surroundings while adding warmth to the interior. Architects designed the space to recall the owner’s childhood mountain experiences, balancing clean lines with the raw beauty of the Rockies.
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A central courtyard serves as the layout’s core, protecting the interior from nearby ski lift activity while filling the space with daylight. The lower level, partly embedded in the hillside, includes a family room, bunk room, wine cellar, and a ski room with an attached spa. The upper level wraps around the courtyard, with living areas positioned to highlight views of Lone Peak. Ceiling heights shift from 10 feet in the primary wing to 18 feet in the collective great room, creating a mix of cozy and open spaces.
The entry unfolds gradually. Guests walk through a limestone-lined courtyard before reaching the main living space, where large windows frame the mountain view. The home’s layout encourages movement around the courtyard, making it the focal point of the design.
Inside, the color scheme remains subtle: natural woods, blackened steel, and smooth stone create a calm atmosphere. Custom woodwork and simple lighting complement the architecture, while furnishings like a curved Pierre Yovanovitch sofa invite conversation to stretch between the kitchen and living areas. Invoking the Japanese concept of omotenashi, meaning “spirit of hospitality,” Vista’s neutral palette cultivates a sense of comfort and serenity.
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Vista is scheduled for completion in 2025. A GRAY Award win would place it among projects recognized for advancing contemporary design in the Pacific Northwest and beyond.
The lodge remains under construction, with finishing touches still being added against Montana’s mountain backdrop. Even now, it demonstrates how modern mountain living can be peaceful, deliberate, and closely tied to the land.
