Black Fox Ranch by CLB Architects: A Contemporary Ranch Rooted in the Landscape

Black Fox Ranch, designed by CLB Architects, is a modern ranch residence located in Jackson. Completed in 2020, the 6,300-square-foot home blends contemporary architectural design with the traditions of a historic working ranch. Positioned on a 35-acre property near the historic riverbed of the Snake River, the project reconnects architecture, wildlife, and land stewardship.

The ranch includes a primary residence and a barn with horse stables, reflecting the owners’ passion for equestrian living and ecological preservation. Designed by lead architects Eric Logan and Leo Naegele, the project references the area’s ranching heritage while embracing contemporary building technologies and sustainable materials.

Architecture Inspired by the Historic Ranch Landscape

The site’s identity is deeply tied to its past as a working cattle ranch. Remnants such as century-old irrigation ditches, traces of a 19th-century trapper’s cabin, and historic corrals influenced the architectural planning. Seasonal wildlife paths, used by hundreds of elk each year, also shape the spatial organization of the ranch.

The clients intentionally selected the property for its ecological richness and proximity to riding trails that lead toward the Grand Teton National Park. Horses remain a central part of everyday life at the ranch, with the barn, pastures, and corrals positioned close to the residence so they remain constantly visible from the home.

This approach creates a living environment where architecture supports rural traditions while respecting the surrounding ecosystem.

Architectural Form and Spatial Organization

The residence rises gently from the surrounding meadow as a low-slung structure with a subtle two-story composition. Most of the program sits on the ground level, while a compact upper level houses the primary bedroom suite and an office. From this elevated floor, residents can access a rooftop terrace offering panoramic views across the valley.

A defining architectural feature is the long, sloping roof built using a cross-laminated timber (CLT) structural system. Deep overhangs extend beyond the walls, providing shade and creating sheltered outdoor living areas. These covered terraces frame spectacular views of the Teton Range to the west and the Gros Ventre Range to the east.

The house is organized in an L-shaped layout that separates public and private zones. The primary wing contains the main living spaces, including the living room, dining room, kitchen, den, and primary bedroom. The secondary wing houses guest accommodations, a gym, sauna, and service spaces such as laundry.

This configuration allows the building to frame outdoor courtyards while maintaining privacy and maximizing views.

Indoor–Outdoor Living and Landscape Integration

Outdoor living is an essential component of the ranch lifestyle, and the architecture reflects this philosophy. Ground-floor spaces open directly to sheltered exterior areas designed for social gathering and relaxation.

These spaces include a fire pit, pizza oven, and outdoor dining terrace surrounded by stands of aspen trees. The terraces are carefully positioned to allow occupants to choose sun or shade throughout the day while enjoying uninterrupted views of the surrounding landscape.

One of the most iconic views from the home frames Sheep Mountain—locally known as the “Sleeping Indian”—a well-known natural landmark visible across the valley.

The landscape design, created by DesignWorkshop, plays a vital role in restoring the ecological character of the site. Native grasses were reseeded and new topsoil added to revive the land. A newly planted bosque of aspen trees introduces shade, structure, and a sense of arrival within the open meadow.

Material Palette and Interior Design

The architectural language of Black Fox Ranch reflects a balance between rugged durability and refined craftsmanship. The exterior uses dark-stained western red cedar, weathered steel, and board-formed concrete, materials chosen for their resilience and ability to age gracefully within the harsh mountain climate.

Inside the residence, the palette shifts toward warmth and tactile richness. White oak and polished concrete floors anchor the interiors, while walnut millwork and custom steel detailing create a sophisticated yet grounded atmosphere. These materials reinforce a connection to nature while maintaining a contemporary aesthetic.

High-quality fixtures and systems from manufacturers such as Gaggenau and Kalwall contribute to the home’s performance and craftsmanship.

The result is an interior environment that feels both luxurious and intimately connected to the surrounding landscape.

Engineering and Technical Collaboration

The success of Black Fox Ranch relies on collaboration among several engineering and design consultants. Structural engineering was provided by KL&A, ensuring the stability of the CLT roof system and expansive structural spans.

Building systems engineering was handled by Energy-1, while lighting design by Lux Populi enhances both interior ambience and nighttime landscape presence.

Together, these technical contributions support the project’s durability, energy efficiency, and visual refinement.

A Contemporary Ranch for Future Generations

Black Fox Ranch represents more than a residential retreat—it is a legacy project reconnecting its owners with their equestrian heritage. By restoring the land, supporting wildlife, and reintroducing agricultural activities such as hay production, the ranch continues the traditions of the region’s historic landscapes.

Through thoughtful architectural design, sustainable land management, and a deep respect for place, CLB Architects have created a residence that bridges past and present. The project demonstrates how contemporary architecture can reinterpret rural typologies while preserving ecological and cultural identity.

All photographs are works of  Matthew Millman, Kevin Scott