Whitten Architects designed this modern ski house that is nestled atop a mountain with breathtaking views of Sugarloaf Mountain in Carrabassett Valley, western Maine. This region is known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities, especially during the winter. This area is home to Sugarloaf Mountain, one of the largest ski areas east of the Rockies.

The homeowners are avid outdoor enthusiasts whose primary residence is in Maine. With a deep connection to the region, they wished to construct a ski house that would provide them with the opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors throughout the year. They selected a site that was positioned on a mountaintop, boasting a picturesque overlook with mountain vistas along with a popular trail system.

DESIGN DETAILS: ARCHITECT Whitten Architects BUILDER Sebastian Tooker Construction‍ INTERIOR DESIGNER Heidi Lachapelle Interiors‍ STRUCTURAL ENGINEER Albert Putnam Associates‍ KITCHEN MILLWORK Sebastian Tooker Construction‍ LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE Soren Deniord Design Studio

The architects approached this project with the need to reinforce the connection between inhabitants and the surrounding terrain, without disrupting the natural features of the site. 

Within the expanse of vegetation, natural “islands” in the form of rocky outcrops offer clearings and wayfinding. The architects thoughtfully explored the site, finding several possibilities of where the house could be built. The goal of this project was to create an outpost that balances protection from the elements while affording magnificent 360-degree views.

One of these vantage points is a view of the town below. The natural clearing and rock formations offered guidance for the design, and the dwelling was sited harmoniously between these distinctive features. 

The concept of prospect and refuge was a guiding principle–creating places where inhabitants feel both protected and connected to the surrounding beauty. Our design concept revolved around a single elongated structure optimized for capturing sunlight and also accommodating passage through the home. A large gable form emerged as a response to the requirement of diverting snow away from entry points. The gable design efficiently sheds snow to the east and west away from visitor arrival.

Rather than disturbing the property’s natural features, the house was situated adjacent to them, turning them into destinations. This approach transforms the house itself into a unique addition to the landscape. The strategic building placement straddles multiple scenic vistas encompassing a long southwest panorama, Sugarloaf Mountain to the northwest, and an eastern exposure to the morning sun.

Inside, the house is a cozy yet functional space, with carefully planned areas for activities. A gear storage room caters to the family’s active lifestyle, offering organized space for various equipment. A sauna, following the Scandinavian tradition, provides a space for relaxation and self-care, set across from the porte cochere.

What We Love: This incredibly designed ski house has been sited perfectly on the property to soak in idyllic views of Sugarloaf Mountain. Inside, the heavy use of wood infuses warmth into the interior living spaces, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere for residents and guests alike. Overall, we think the project team created an absolutely stunning home that invites the outdoors inside and maximizes the views throughout.

Tell Us: What details do you find most intriguing about the design of this mountain dwelling? Let us know in the Comments below!

Note: Be sure to check out a couple of other amazing home tours that we have showcased here on One Kindesign in the state of Maine: A 570 square foot steel cabin immersed in a beautiful Maine forest and Beautiful coastal Maine home envisioned for idyllic summer getaways.

Heidi Lachapelle Interiors‍ has impeccably harmonized the interior design with the architecture and the surroundings. The stone extracted from the site and used for the foundation set the tone for the entire dwelling, inspiring everything from the fireplace hearth to the fabric schemes.

Above: On the interior, locally sourced Eastern white pine clads the floors, walls, and ceilings and will age gracefully and connect with the landscape and region. 

Above: The central staircase strategically divides public and private living spaces. Constructed from reclaimed elm, the staircase serves as a core feature, branching out to various parts of the dwelling.

The exterior materials were carefully chosen for aesthetics and durability while also echoing local New England tradition. Eastern white cedar shingles, a standing seam metal roof, and Western red cedar board siding were used to withstand the mountain’s harsh conditions. Integrating a durable board-formed concrete base roots the structure to the site.

The home’s exterior envelope design is informed by the latest building science and tradition. A rain screen system, robust continuous insulation, and remarkable airtightness ensure the building’s longevity for years to come.

Carefully executed millwork by a team of craftspeople created a sense of protection on the north side while opening up to the expansive views to the south.

PHOTOGRAPHER Trent Bell Photography