Rustic Mountain Retreat
New Construction
A mountainside home built around heavy timber, reclaimed wood and stone, with outdoor living treated as part of the floor plan rather than an afterthought.
The Vision
The vision for this Rustic Western Mountain Retreat began with an extraordinary piece of family history. Reclaimed Douglas Fir beams, originally harvested in the late 1800s, came from an industrial building constructed by the homeowners' great-grandfather in the Midwest. These treasured heirlooms became the inspiration for the entire home, incorporated as exposed posts and beams throughout both the interior and exterior.
The goal was to create a welcoming mountain retreat that celebrated the family's heritage while bringing generations together to make new memories.
The Design Thinking
Rather than competing with the character of the century-old timbers, every design decision was made to complement and celebrate them. Rugged Western architecture meets refined comfort through a thoughtful balance of natural materials, rich textures, and timeless craftsmanship.
The heirloom beams were lightly wire-brushed and clear-coated to preserve their original patina. Leathered stone countertops, reclaimed barn wood, natural stonework, and weathered metals create warmth and authenticity, while decorative iron accents add another layer of craftsmanship.
Throughout the home, a consistent palette of earthy finishes connects the expansive gathering spaces with the more intimate rooms, creating a cohesive design that feels both welcoming and deeply rooted in its mountain setting.
Why It Matters
This home is more than a beautiful mountain retreat. It's a celebration of family history, where materials that have already stood for more than a century have been given new purpose.
By thoughtfully incorporating the heirloom timbers into the architecture and carrying their character throughout the design, the home connects generations past with those still to come.
The result is an enduring, deeply personal home where family history, thoughtful design, and new memories come together.
Completed while Natalie was with Veritas Fine Homes in Durango, Colorado. Per the homeowner's letter, the finished home won the local Parade of Homes the following year.
Client Perspective
“Natalie's design ideas, her handling of the selections, her relationship with us as clients and her awareness of cost were all excellent. She was conscientious and genuinely helpful throughout.”
2019 Parade of Homes
- People's Choice Award
- Best Overall Home
- Best in Class, Over $2 Million
- Best Master Bedroom
Project completed during Natalie's tenure with Veritas Fine Homes in Durango, Colorado. Design work by Natalie Maxwell, now owner and principal designer of Refined Designs.
Project Scope
Custom new construction, Durango, Colorado
- Heavy timber framing with reclaimed wood and stone
- Great room organized around a stone fireplace and window wall
- Wine wall along the main hallway
- Upper landing overlooking the great room
- Bunk room with pool table for guests
- Covered patio with fire table and outdoor fireplace
- Separate fire pit terrace
Planning a custom home or major renovation?
Send the location, the type of project and where you are in the process. If it is a fit, we will talk through what the design work would look like.
