BCV architects perches crow's nest cabin on ski hill in california

BCV architects places crow’s nest cabin on ski hill in california
photo by bruce damonte
all images courtesy of BCV architects

designed by BCV architects, the ‘crow’s nest’ cabin is located at an elevation of 7,080 feet above sea level in the sugar bowl resort area. with ski-in/ski-out access during the winters, the large residence accommodates a multi-generational family, and prioritizes social spaces over bedrooms. the structure is composed of two wood upper levels that are perched upon a concrete base, with an expansive deck and large roof extending from the main volume.

photo by bruce damonte

the sugar bowl resort is situated at the historic donner summit in the sierra nevada range in california. the ‘crow’s nest’ is sited on one of the higher parts on the mountain and experiences heavy snowfall, producing true ski-in, ski-out conditions. a grove of trees provides privacy to the uphill side of the cabin. the design takes advantage of this adjacency through large windows and an expansive outdoor deck, which allow for increased views of the context, celebrating the structure’s position in the forest.

the residence allows for direct ski-in, ski-out access
photo by bruce damonte

the large roof is composed of a radiating arrangement of glulam beams, and extends beyond the edges of the home to mediate sun exposure in the summer, and protect from falling snow and ice in the winter. the structure is able to withstand massive snow loads of over 400 lbs. per square foot.

(left): the roof is composed of radiating glulam beams
(roof): an outdoor deck faces toward a grove of trees
photos by bruce damonte

the concrete ground level is reminiscent of traditional european ski chalets, and provides a heavy base for the wooden upper levels to sit upon. an axis of arched openings cut through this floor and organize its spaces, which include a sauna, ski room, laundry room, and movie area.

the upper levels are organized around a double height living room, which features a stone chimney and robust log columns. large windows open the space greatly to the outdoor deck and uphill grove of trees. more intimate program is organized around this central gathering area, including the dining room, bedrooms, and library.

the upper levels are arranged around a central double-height living room
photo by bruce damonte

large glass walls celebrate the house’s position in the forested context
photo by bruce damonte

a sauna is located on the lower level
photo by bruce damonte

a steel staircase on the north side of the house provides vertical circulation throughout the three levels, and features a large window framing views of the mountain context. this large glazed area contrasts the other relatively small openings on this façade, and creates a sense of transparency through the entirety of the house.