Residential, Custom Homes

Amid old-growth spruce and aspen trees in the heart of Aspen’s West End neighborhood, this dual building residential project both reflects and contemporizes the classic pan abode construction that contributed to the development of Aspen’s international ski and tourism industries.

Upon the owners’ voluntarily landmark designation of the pan abode through the Aspen Modern Inventory of historic structures and the Aspen Historic Preservation Commission (HPC), the design team undertook the challenge of renovating and restoring a circa 1956, historic structure, a rustic, single-story premanufactured log kit home that once served as an idealized version of the western log cabin.

Location:

Aspen, Colorado

Size:

1,814 SF (Cabin) 5,735 SF (House)

R+B Services:

Architecture

Interior Design

Awards:

2024 ASID Crystal Award - Residential, New Construction 3,500 - 6,500 SF

Project Summary

Pan Abode

Type

Residential – Custom Home

Size
1,814 SF (Cabin) 5,735 SF (House)
Scope
Architecture
Interior Design
Awards
2024 ASID Crystal Award - Residential, New Construction 3,500 - 6,500 SF

Description

Amid old-growth spruce and aspen trees in the heart of Aspen’s West End neighborhood, this dual building residential project both reflects and contemporizes the classic pan abode construction that contributed to the development of Aspen’s international ski and tourism industries.

Upon the owners’ voluntarily landmark designation of the pan abode through the Aspen Modern Inventory of historic structures and the Aspen Historic Preservation Commission (HPC), the design team undertook the challenge of renovating and restoring a circa 1956, historic structure, a rustic, single-story premanufactured log kit home that once served as an idealized version of the western log cabin.

In addition to the non-historic wing being removed, the interior was reconfigured, and the cabin moved off its foundation to make way for a new below grade level with two bedrooms and flex space, all within the original footprint.

The integrity and architectural characteristics of the historic log cabin were retained. Exterior logs were sanded to the original Western Red Cedar finish, windows repaired and re-stained. Inside, a new primary bedroom suite and great room feature the original exposed logs and simple stone and steel metal finishes. A new connecting stair allows light to flow to the lower level.

In accordance with Aspen’s HPC requirements, the new building’s design reflects the form, materials, and fenestration of the historic structure while distinguishing it as contemporary. The glass stair volume at the entry connects all four levels of the residence and is screened by new, overlapping pan abode logs to speak to the historic cabin.

Inside, the basement features a guest suite, bunkroom, media room and a gym that includes an infrared sauna. The upper level features the primary living spaces with kitchen, living, covered alfresco dining and the main bedroom suite. A rooftop deck with 360-degree mountain views encourages a physical and emotional connection to a singular place and time.

Location:

Aspen, Colorado

Size:

1,814 SF (Cabin) 5,735 SF (House)

R+B Services:

Architecture

Interior Design

Awards:

2024 ASID Crystal Award - Residential, New Construction 3,500 - 6,500 SF

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