Pinecone Scales
William Tabberson Architects · Netherland, CO
Overview
Pinecones in nature have long since intrigued human curiosity and admiration. Made of an algorithmic pattern of overlapping bracts, the seemingly simple pinecone displays an intricate hierarchy of scale and volume. Pinecone Scales mountain-modern dwelling is similarly made of several smaller overlapping spaces and volumes that interact symbiotically with human and building performance measures. Its forms and spatial considerations are inspired by pinecones, which encourages a mindful relationship between human and natural environments.
Pinecone Scales is a tapestry of indoor and outdoor places designed in harmony with the land, creating experiential relationships between human, natural, and built landscapes. The home is wrapped in covered open spaces that blur the line between inside and out while passively mitigating climate. From the rounded southern terrace, to the landscaped trellis walkway and stone portal entry, to the upper level decks on the northeast and northwest corners, the occupants are invited to enjoy the beauty of this mountain landscape from every possible viewpoint. This thoughtfully choreographed programming through and around the dwelling is the connective tissue of discovery that binds the home and inhabitants to the natural landscape. The dwelling is oriented longitudinally along the east west axis providing unobstructed solar access for passive heating/cooling and a stunning view of the mountains. The inhabited spaces follow the path of the sun with the bedroom suite in the east and gathering places in the west. The monopitch roof form creates three articulated pavilions facing south with deep overhangs to shelter from rain and sun. The sleeping pavilion with its eastern deck, the conversational living pavilion in the center, and the cooking pavilion to the west are defined by recessed stone masonry walls. The human-scaled spaces provide opportunities to find the perfect spot to read, study, talk, work, relax, or eat.
Gallery