Portland studio Skylab Architecture designed the triangular floor plan of this Colorado retreat to allow optimum views of the region's mountainous landscape.

Owl Creek Residence is located near the town of Snowmass, a popular destination for winter sports. The 4,200-square-foot (390-square-metre) home was built as a place for the client's family and friends to gather.

"The Owl Creek Residence was built on the idea that a physical place can deepen the connections between friends, families and the natural world," said Skylab Architecture.

An entry court leads through a foyer to the lounge – an area with stepped seating that follows the natural slope of the site. "Terracing theatre seating maximises space within the stairwell working with the topography," Skylab said.

The lower level contains the home's five bedrooms, which are laid out along a corridor that follows the V-shaped outline of the plan. This storey also includes amenities such as a steam room and hot tub.

"Compact and efficient private sleeping wings open up to expansive outdoor views at the lower level," said the studio.

"Exterior spaces open interior activity to the outdoors, including a triangular spa with an elevated deck and an expansive outdoor terrace right off of the kitchen."

A short flight of stairs provides access to the home's communal spaces, which are enclosed by two floor-to-ceiling glass walls that form the tip of the triangular plan.

"The structure frames powerful views through two principal façades, maximising the visual connection to the landscape at every angle," Skylab said.

The spaces on the upper level are meant for entertaining, and include an open-concept living and dining room, a den, and kitchen.

An expansive faceted roof extends out to the south of the home, next to the kitchen, and forms a sheltered outdoor seating area. Here, residents and their guests can grill food or gather around the exterior fireplace.

The home's intricate steel structure was left exposed, and the architects complemented its material palette with wood, stone, and weathering steel. "Finishes and interior relationships were carefully crafted to draw the scenic landscape inward and extending the outdoor deck living experience," said. Skylab.

The mountainous state of Colorado has recently seen several projects completed for winter sports enthusiasts. Others include a pair of rustic-looking cabins designed by Renée del Gaudio and a low-slung retreat by CCY Architects built of wood and glass.

Photography is by Robert Reck unless otherwise indicated.