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Great Room

The focal 3-foot-thick rammed-earth wall is an energy-efficient thermal mass system that prevents heat from penetrating interior spaces as well as a piece of art itself, with natural striations recalling ancient canyon walls, Native American ruins and board-formed concrete foundations from pioneer mining structures. Glazing separates this dramatically from other wall and roof planes, daylighting and moonlighting the room and changing its mood throughout the day while celebrating the imperfections of the rammed earth.

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Kitchen

A low soffit frames the kitchen, reiterating the room-within-a-room concept and lowering the visual scale of the room, while indirect lighting enhances the drama of the soaring roof above. A simple palette of stone, wood, metal and daylight compose a clean setting— allowing the owners’ vibrant personalities and beautiful meals to appear center stage as they entertain friends and family.

WORD TO THE WISE
“The most powerful design statement can often be made using the most humble of materials. And don’t forget that the most important material in your design palette is light. Daylight, used properly, changes the feel of a room throughout the day and brings the occupant closer to nature while reducing energy consumption.” —B.K.

“Be dramatic but don’t ignore the need for coziness. The best rooms are those that feel comfortable whether there is one person reading a book or 100 people enjoying a social event.” —B.K.