Blending architecture with nature’s canvas at the Sky View House
Perched amidst Idaho’s majestic mountains, the Sky View house by Olson Kundig is crafted from concrete, steel, and glass. A striking feature of this 7,190-square-foot home is its retractable roof, inviting the celestial beauty of Sun Valley inside.
Architect Tom Kundig describes the design as a seamless integration with the landscape, utilizing the visual coolness of the surrounding arroyo. “It refines how the home opens and closes, letting the environment become part of daily life,” he explains, highlighting its focus on natural vistas.
An integration with the surrounding wilderness
Sky View’s unique design offers a panoramic experience, framing the majesty of mountains, meadow, and sky. The lounge, crowned with a manually operated roof, places occupants directly beneath the starlit desert heavens.
Enveloped in wood with an intimate low ceiling, the space transforms as the roof rolls back, creating an unparalleled connection with Idaho’s high-desert skies.
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With its configuration in tune with the landscape, the home faces the dry creek, or arroyo, with concrete fortitude while opening up living spaces to horizon views on the elevated second floor.
“The house creates a dynamic flow between shelter and exposure,” Kundig observes. “It’s about extending your reach outward while maintaining a sense of security.”
Durability meets delicate design
Olson Kundig designed Sky View with resilience in mind, selecting materials like concrete and steel that endure the elements—snow, wind, and fire—while maintaining minimal upkeep. Inside, the home boasts a warmer touch with plaster, wood floors, and ceilings complementing its robust exterior.
The overarching design concept centers on connecting to nature through multiple perspectives, emphasizing immersion over singular views. Kundig notes, “It’s about being aware of your surroundings, the sky, and the earth simultaneously.”
Olson Kundig’s offices span Seattle, New York, and Chicago, with this project reflecting their characteristic blend of innovation and harmony with nature. The studio’s portfolio also includes a waterside holiday home in Sweden and a mid-century modern residence in Vancouver, showcasing their expertise in crafting homes that dialogue with their environment.
Photography credits to Aaron Leitz.
Source: dezeen.com
Frequently asked questions
What materials is the Sky View House made from?
The Sky View House is crafted from concrete, steel, and glass.
How does the Sky View House connect with nature?
The house features a retractable roof that allows the celestial beauty of Sun Valley inside, providing a seamless integration with the landscape. It offers a panoramic experience framing the mountains, meadow, and sky while opening up living spaces to horizon views.
Who is the architect behind the Sky View House?
The Sky View House was designed by architect Tom Kundig of Olson Kundig.