East Watch
stats:
Location:
Colorado
Square Footage:
2,116 S.F.
3 Bedroom
2 Baths
2 Baths
Construction Date:
2019
East Watch is a modern mountain home designed by F9 Productions to meet the specific needs and aspirations of its clients. Situated at high altitude, this home is crafted to be efficient, durable, and functional, embodying the principles of modern architecture and environmental sustainability.
Client Drivers & Unique Features:
- Efficiency: The home is designed to be energy-efficient, leveraging passive solar heating to offset heating costs significantly. The design features a southeasterly window wall paired with masonry thermal masses, contributing to 75% of the home’s heating needs. At an elevation of 8,200 feet in climate Zone 5, this is crucial for maintaining a comfortable living environment during cold winters.
- Durability: The house is built to endure the harsh high-altitude elements, including 100mph winds and heavy snowfall. A steel post and beam system supports the roof, while the exterior materials include locally sourced corten steel, masonry, and glass. The roofing is Class A fire-rated TPO, and the decking is made of Ipe, ensuring resistance to wildfires and longevity.
- Functionality: Following the principle of “form follows function,” the design emphasizes practical and efficient use of space. Features include floor-to-ceiling windows and a brick wall for passive heating, an island kitchen that separates cooking from baking, and long roof overhangs for snow protection and summer sun blocking. The home is also designed to be accessible, with no stairs, compliant doors and hallways, and future-proofing measures like blocking for handrails.
Architectural Features:
- Passive Solar Design: The home’s heating is predominantly passive, with a window wall and masonry thermal masses providing significant heat gain. The concrete slab floor and internal brick wall offer 90 tonnes of thermal mass.
- Efficient Heating System: The hydronic in-floor heating system is used minimally, less than 6 hours each night during winter.
- Natural Ventilation: High sloped ceilings facilitate the removal of hot air during summer through awning windows, maintaining a cool interior.
Construction Type:
- Steel Post and Beam: Ensures structural integrity against high winds and heavy snow loads.
- Corten Steel, Masonry, and Glass: Durable exterior materials that offer fire resistance and low maintenance.
Interior Design:
- Elegant and Simple: The interior features a muted palette and simple geometric shapes that respect and frame the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.
- Accessible Design: No stairs and wide hallways and doors ensure the home is accessible, with provisions for future adaptations.
East Watch by F9 Productions is a testament to thoughtful, efficient, and durable design in a high-altitude environment. The home seamlessly integrates functionality, beauty, and sustainability, providing a comfortable and resilient living space that meets the evolving needs of its residents while harmonizing with the natural landscape.
