Architects: Studio B Architecture + Interiors
Area: 7840 ft²
Year: 2023
Photographs: James Florio
Manufacturers: Veselbrand, reSAWN TIMBER co.
Lead Architects: Studio B Architecture + Interiors
Interior Designers: Leap Interiors
General Contractors: Hansen Construction
Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Boulder, Colorado, the Panorama House stands as a testament to architectural reverence and modern innovation. This award winning project, a meticulous renovation and expansion of a residence originally conceived by renowned midcentury architect James Hunter, has not only been recognized as a Historic Landmark but also sets a new standard for sustainable luxury living. Its design, thoughtfully balancing privacy with unparalleled natural beauty, offers a serene escape for its homeowners.
Design Harmony with Nature
The Panorama House masterfully integrates with its environment, featuring an L shaped plan that embraces a secluded pool courtyard. This private oasis boasts a swimming pool, a spa, and inviting outdoor dining and lounge areas. The residence’s slim East West orientation minimizes its visual footprint when viewed from the iconic Chautauqua Park, a design choice that speaks to a profound respect for the natural surroundings. Vertical wood slats, strategically placed, serve a dual purpose: they mitigate harsh glare while enhancing privacy, all without compromising the sweeping panoramic views of the Front Range and the vibrant City of Boulder. A truly innovative feature, the walkable stone pool cover, descends seamlessly into the water, transforming the area into a versatile reflecting pool, swimming pool, and an adaptable outdoor living space perfect for entertaining. This dynamic water feature aligns perfectly with the primary bedroom and the majestic Flatiron peaks.
Interiors: A Symphony of Serenity and Style
Step inside the Panorama House, and you are immediately enveloped in an atmosphere where contemporary luxury meets tranquil dynamism. The interior design ethos is rooted in minimalist principles, yet it pays homage to the original midcentury structure through the judicious use of natural, warm materials. Japanese plaster, luminous limestone, and richly stained white oak create a sophisticated palette. Throughout the home, wood slats contribute warmth, subtly define spatial boundaries, and enhance acoustic quality, ensuring a serene yet engaging experience.
The main level of the home exemplifies a deep connection to the natural world, with transparency being a cornerstone of the design. Generous expanses of glass blur the lines between indoors and out. Intimately scaled spaces are meticulously crafted to frame specific views and integrate with the adjacent landscape. The kitchen and living room, for instance, are thoughtfully paired, offering direct sightlines to the Flatirons. Separated by elegant wood ‘cores,’ the dining room is oriented to connect with the dramatic cliffs above and the tranquil pool courtyard. The primary suite enjoys direct access to the pool courtyard and Flatirons, while its en suite bathroom opens to its own private northern courtyard and a dedicated yoga platform, creating a truly personal sanctuary.
Celebrating Heritage and Unveiling Hidden Delights
The original section of the home is a respectful nod to its midcentury origins, celebrating sweeping panoramas of Boulder City and the Front Range. Warm wood, natural stone, a classic wood burning fireplace, carefully curated vintage furnishings, and a stylish bar evoke a timeless elegance. This area extends seamlessly to a sunken courtyard featuring a fire pit, offering a private and immersive experience within the landscape.
Beyond its public facing grandeur, the Panorama House holds a few delightful secrets. A concealed speakeasy lounge, complete with a performance stage and state of the art sound and lighting systems, caters to the client’s musical passions. For serious musicians, a professional grade recording studio, featuring soundproof walls and advanced acoustic treatments, provides an unparalleled space for creative expression. And for the automotive enthusiast, a discreetly integrated car lift in the garage optimizes space efficiency, offering seamless access to multiple vehicles.
A Blueprint for Sustainable Living
The Panorama House is not merely a beautiful residence; it is a beacon of environmental responsibility. Achieving net zero energy consumption, the project incorporates highly efficient building assemblies, high performance glass, and active energy generation through photovoltaic panels and geothermal heating systems. Automated systems, intelligently tailored to local environmental conditions, further minimize ecological impact while simultaneously promoting a healthier living environment. The Panorama House stands as a remarkable example of how architectural excellence, historical preservation, and cutting edge sustainability can converge to create a truly exceptional home.
