Betasso Overlook

Boulder, Colorado

2021

3673sf

Betasso Overlook is set on a gently sloping mountain site overlooking Betasso Preserve, an 1,100 acre biking and hiking nature preserve located in Boulder, Colorado. The composition of the structure sits in tune with the topography. The design is broken down into three connected “cabins” stepping down the gentle slope, overlooking the preserve.

The sloping roof form is an innovative configuration of the traditional gable roof, a gesture in response to the particular qualities of the site. The steep metal roof/wall protects the house from western winds and provides privacy from the road. Heavy timber decks extend to the south, providing seamless indoor/outdoor living space. Hemlock ceilings layer over exposed rafters. Polished concrete floors ground the house to its site. Plywood millwork lines the interior. A raw and elemental palette stands up to the elements and connects the home to its spectacular mountain site.

Deep overhangs protect southern glass in summer months. A radiant concrete slab and high efficiency wood burning stove provide heating. Floor-to-ceiling casement windows and an open floor plan create an airy interior space with natural cross ventilation. Continuous insulation wraps the framed walls and roof creating an airtight building envelope. Geothermal heating with a ground source heat pump and 100% electric appliances allow the home to operate gas-free. An 8.9kW photovoltaic array, located on an off-site solar farm, will make the home net-zero.

Betasso Overlook is in construction.

Rendering | Notion Workshop