Basecamp Residence by CLB Architects: A Mountain Retreat in Big Sky, Montana

A Harmonious Connection Between Architecture and Nature

Nestled in the heart of Moonlight Basin, Big Sky, Montana, Basecamp Residence by CLB Architects is a stunning 7,500-square-foot mountain retreat designed to immerse its inhabitants in the surrounding dense fir and pine forests. Created as a family getaway, this residence offers an intimate connection to nature while embracing modern design and sustainable building practices.

The homeowners, based in Manhattan, New York, envisioned a sanctuary where their three children could experience the beauty of the wilderness. Inspired by childhood memories spent on a New Hampshire tree farm, the father sought to recreate that same deep-rooted bond with nature for his family.

Blending Contemporary Design with Natural Elements

Thoughtfully sited to minimize environmental impact, the home seamlessly integrates with its sub-alpine forest surroundings. Positioned along the edge of a gentle slope, its elongated, linear floor plan extends outward with two angular wings that embrace the landscape. This layout not only maximizes breathtaking views of Ulery’s Lake and the Spanish Peaks but also defines a semi-sheltered outdoor living space, ideal for year-round enjoyment.

A striking double-sided glass corridor bridges the two wings, creating a transparent core that dissolves the boundary between indoor and outdoor spaces. Strategically placed high-performance windows flood the interiors with natural light, while an elevated living area ensures expansive treetop views.

A Home Designed for Connection and Sustainability

Basecamp Residence fosters both family connectivity and environmental sustainability. Bedrooms are intentionally modest in size, encouraging gathering in the shared kitchen, dining, and living areas. The home’s open-plan layout enhances social interaction, while outdoor spaces seamlessly transition into the interiors, reinforcing a strong link to nature.

Sustainable design features include:

• Locally sourced materials that reduce environmental impact.
• A super-insulated building envelope for energy efficiency.
• Passive solar design to optimize heating and cooling.
• Natural ventilation strategies that minimize energy consumption.

Material Palette: Inspired by the Montana Landscape

The interior design reflects both the family’s unique identity and the surrounding natural elements. A curated selection of materials enhances warmth and texture throughout the home:

• Continuous hemlock soffits blur the distinction between inside and outside.
• White oak and polished concrete floors add durability and elegance.
• Dark walnut cabinetry provides a rich, organic contrast in the kitchen.
• Dry-stacked quartzite stone walls, both inside and out, echo the rugged beauty of Montana’s landscape.

Complementing this material palette, the furnishings introduce hues of deep reds, burnt oranges, and earthy neutrals, mirroring the colors of autumn foliage. A carefully curated art collection bridges the family’s two worlds, featuring works sourced from both Montana and New York City.

An Architectural Gateway to the Outdoors

Designed as a launchpad for outdoor adventure, Basecamp Residence offers direct access to skiing, fishing, and hiking in Big Sky’s pristine wilderness. Whether gathered around the expansive deck, unwinding in the glass-wrapped living room, or exploring the trails beyond, this mountain retreat redefines modern alpine living with a timeless connection to nature.

All Photographs are works of Kevin Scott