Elizabeth Roberts Architecture designed this striking 3,500 square-foot modern mountain ski house that overlooks the rolling foothills of the Catskill Mountains, which lie in southeastern New York State. Positioned at varying elevations of Windham Mountain, the architect designed two gable structures that are connected by a below-grade passageway.

The public volume contains entertaining spaces organized around twin fireplaces and a central kitchen and is entered through a walkthrough storage room for skis, boots, and coats. Unobstructed views create a sense of floating over the mountain. The second volume is set into — and further down — the mountainside to reduce the massing and create intimate sleeping spaces.

DESIGN DETAILS: ARCHITECT Elizabeth Roberts Architects GENERAL CONTRACTOR Hickory Hill Builders CABINETRY DESIGN Shawanga Ridge Woodworks

The site’s steep topography required the foundation to be directly tied into the rock ledge below. Utilizing prefabricated wood trusses, vaulted ceilings maximize views and form a loft space overlooking the Kitchen, Dining, and Living areas.

A limited palette of materials and details unify the various spaces and speak to the vernacular agrarian building traditions in the area. Robust wall assemblies and high-performance building systems create an efficient, durable home that enhances the experience of living on the mountain.

What We Love: The expansive walls of glazing allow plenty of natural light to filter into the living areas to create a feeling of openness. This provides a seamless transition between indoors and outdoors, creating the perfect living environment to appreciate the stunning views. Additionally, the distinctive design of this modern mountain ski house blends natural materials and contemporary details to create an attractive aesthetic.

Tell Us: What elements in the design of this mountain dwelling do you find most intriguing? Please share your thoughts in the Comments below!

Note: Be sure to check out a couple of other fabulous home tours that we have showcased here on One Kindesign in the state of New York: Breathtaking modern forest home seeks refuge in the Catskill Mountains and Lake house getaway boasts wintry views in the Adirondack Mountains.

Set on a 1.4-acre mountainside site, this cedar-clad modern mountain house with an open floor plan layout boasts the most spectacular valley views. 

PHOTOGRAPHER Chris Mottalini