Bohlin Cywinski Jackson Design

Kicking Horse Residence

Kicking Horse Residence
© Nic Lehoux

KICKING HORSE RESIDENCE

Bohlin Cywinski Jackson + Association with Bohlin Grauman Miller Architects

AREA
3500 ft²

PROJECT CONSULTANT
Cascade Engineering Group - Coordinating Registered Professional

STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING
ReEvolution Engineering - Mechanical Engineer

CLIENT
Withheld

CATEGORY
Houses

LOCATION
Golden, Canada

GENERAL CONTRACTOR
HR Pacific

Situated at the base of the Kicking Horse ski resort in the Canadian Rocky Mountains, this 3,500 sq. ft. residence is a gathering place for an active family of five.

Kicking Horse Residence
© Nic Lehoux
Kicking Horse Residence
© Nic Lehoux

The clients desired a space that would provide a direct connection to the landscape for seasonal recreation and the flexibility to accommodate larger groups of family and friends, with beds for up to 14 people.

The sloping site is adjacent to a ski trail and surrounded by an alpine forest of spruce and aspen.

Kicking Horse Residence
© Nic Lehoux
Kicking Horse Residence
© Nic Lehoux

The house is arranged as two elements on the site: a dense bar along the northern edge containing the sleeping and bath spaces, and an open shell with living and dining spaces oriented toward the extraordinary mountain views.

A glass volume links these forms, with the main entrance at the lower level and an upper landing for ski access on the west side. Careful positioning of program enables a sense of openness and transparency while screening the neighboring homes from view.

Kicking Horse Residence
© Nic Lehoux
Kicking Horse Residence
© Nic Lehoux

The linear form of the sleeping spaces cantilevers over a board-formed concrete base containing the garage, mudroom, and playroom. The exposed wood structure and deep roof overhangs express the tectonic qualities of a mountain cabin.

Kicking Horse Residence
© Nic Lehoux
Kicking Horse Residence
© Nic Lehoux

The primary entry is located between two concrete walls, with a mahogany and steel stair leading to the living spaces above.

A single line of steel columns extends along the main hallway, emphasizing the angle of the bedroom roof plane, which folds over the peak to become an articulated metal wall with operable vents, bringing light and air into the loft spaces. The lofts contain bunk beds that allow flexible sleeping arrangements for children or guests.

Kicking Horse Residence
© Nic Lehoux
Kicking Horse Residence
© Nic Lehoux
Kicking Horse Residence
© Nic Lehoux

Anchored by a tall, board-formed concrete fireplace, the geometric form containing the living and dining spaces floats above the forest floor, allowing natural drainage to flow uninterrupted through the site.

Smooth Douglas fir plywood-clad wall and ceiling planes extend to the exterior, framing alpine views and sheltering an outdoor deck.

The exterior is clad in a combination of black-stained and clear cedar siding that contrasts with the landscape.

Kicking Horse Residence
© Nic Lehoux
Kicking Horse Residence
© Nic Lehoux

Fiber-cement panels with bold colors accent the natural wood finishes of the elevations. This family retreat uses powerful forms and evocative materials to embrace the natural world.


Kicking Horse Residence
Diagram
Kicking Horse Residence
Section


Kicking Horse Residence
Site Plan

Kicking Horse Residence
Floor Plan

Kicking Horse Residence
Floor Plan

Kicking Horse Residence
Floor Plan

Bohlin Cywinski Jackson Design
T +1 570 8258756 F +1 570 8253744
Bohlin Cywinski Jackson Design
8 W Market St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701, United States