Dezeen Magazine

Gros Ventre house by Dynia sits among rugged Wyoming terrain

Wyoming firm Dynia Architects has completed a holiday home in Jackson, nestling its L-shaped form into the region's mountainous landscape.

Gros Ventre is a single-family home comprised of two perpendicular wings that form a courtyard. "Extensive valley and mountain views to the South and East inspired this simple L-shaped house that is anchored into the landscape," explained the studio, founded in 1993.

The home was sited on a 35-acre (14-hectare) lot, in a remote part of the northwestern US state. Due to the site's slope, parts of the residence occupy only the ground level, while others are two storeys high.

"The shape of the house forms an intimate courtyard that contrasts with the sweeping views to the south," said the architects.

The circulation was organised around this central outdoor space so that every part of the home can easily access it. "All the major spaces have access to the extensive valley views," said Dynia.

Inside, floor-to-ceiling glazing and an open-plan configuration afford the residents privileged views of the surrounding landscapes.

"The living room is located in the southeast corner of the house and cantilevers into the landscape affording stunning 180-degree views," the studio said.

The south facade of the house is protected by a dramatic cantilevered roof. In addition to sheltering a balcony from the weather, this feature prevents overheating in the summer, while allowing the home to enjoy passive solar gain in the winter months.

The structure is clad in wood siding and weathering-steel panels that play off the site's natural setting. Inside, a similar palette was rendered in earthy tones.

A variety of mid-century modern furniture pieces were chosen for their timeless aesthetic.

Dynia Architects, which also has offices in Denver, Colorado, has also completed a home in which the main living spaces are separated with thick partitions of weathering steel, and another Wyoming residence that was designed to frame views of the Teton mountain range.

Photography is by David Agnello, unless indicated otherwise.