Effortless living inspires a remodeled Aspen Mountain retreat that prioritizes comfort and connection to the outdoors. When California homeowners bought a four-bedroom, five-and-a-half-bath mountain getaway, they hired J. Banks Design Group to gut the interior and build a new life for the property. The owners wanted a space that felt warm, balanced, and modern without looking like a showroom.
Janet Perry and Doris Gilch led the renovation, which included gutting the interior to the studs. The design team added an elevator to the tri-level dwelling and extended a bedroom. A two-sided fireplace was redesigned with metal and stack stone to create a focal point in the home. Oak floors and ceilings were installed to create a continuous flow throughout the space.
The design team focused on function and craftsmanship. Every piece of millwork and cabinetry was designed with the clients’ lifestyle in mind. The handrails along the staircase were wrapped in leather for an elegant touch. The result is a home that invites guests to sink in and relax rather than admire from a distance.
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The kitchen features an island with seating for three and a breakfast table for four. Textural and sculptural metal finishes are paired with light marble and dark wood for a cozy look. The formal dining area accommodates 10 guests. The living space uses layered textures and shades of green to complement the panoramic outdoor view.
Art was sourced by the client to add a personal touch throughout the home. An interior game room provides a dedicated spot for entertainment. The home also includes a private deck accessible from the office, offering a workspace surrounded by majestic views. Outdoor living areas allow for al-fresco grilling and dining.
Design Details and Client Collaboration
“The goal was to root the home in comfort and draw the outdoors in,” says Perry, a 40-year executive designer with the firm. “Every nook and cranny was crafted with consideration to the owners’ input and was a cooperative effort.” Plush luxury fabrics, hand-finished woods, and woven leathers mix together to illustrate the nuance between contemporary aesthetics.
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One unexpected addition was an extra-special find: tumbleweed chandeliers from Farmhaus + Co. These pieces add an unusual, conversation-starting statement to the design. Graciously appointed bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms are made comfortable with lush linens and soothing color schemes.
Designing a home in a mountainous climate often requires a delicate balance between indoor comfort and outdoor exposure. Because Aspen’s weather can shift rapidly, architects often install oversized windows or glass doors to blur the line between inside and outside. This renovation does exactly that by prioritizing flow and natural light, allowing the surrounding setting to become a living backdrop for daily activities.
