Surrounded by magnificent aspen, cedar, tamarack and pine trees, this secluded new build in Bigfork, Montana, is as striking as it is effortlessly natural – luxurious, yet rooted by a rustic minimalism that connects it seamlessly to its environment.
The antithesis of city living, the property, a five-bedroom home with separate two-bedroom barn, was built as a dream escape for new empty-nesters – a Texas-based couple in their fifties.
‘The push and pull of rustic and modern and light and dark gives the home a wonderful informality', says designer Kylee
‘Located in their favorite vacation destination, it was designed as a place to disconnect – large enough for their four college-age children to all stay; for them to pursue the outdoor life they love; and a space for them to eventually retire to,’ says Seattle-based creative director and principal designer, Kylee Shintaffer.
We take the tour.
The lofty proportions are counterbalanced with all of the rustic and rich materials
The secret to the home’s success is the combination of rustic and refined: the exterior, a mix of rough-sawn cedar planks, finished in a cool, light-grey wash, contrasts gently against warmer reclaimed wooden timber rafters and trusses, a striking steel roof and dark-stained windows.
A wall of windows makes the most of the view
While inside, white-washed cedar panelling offsets darker timbers that add character and depth. ‘The constant push and pull of light with dark, rustic with modern, bridges the two design ideas and stops the home from feeling too perfect or formal,’ says Kylee.
A favourite space within the downstairs living area that feels immersed in the woodland beyond
The vaulted, open-plan living area sits at the heart of the house. ‘The family love to cook together, so behind the bespoke kitchen design, we have carefully balanced function and beauty,’ says Kylee.
The house’s converted barn for guests does modern rustic beautifully – this chic banquette a case in point
A statement kitchen island and sculptural lights are offset with softer, more organic forms and fabrics – foraged branches and tactile wool plaids, mixed with buttery leathers, cozy sheepskins, earthy plains and simple stripes.
Within small spaces Kylee takes the opportunity to add in more playful colorways
Furniture, an inspired mix of old and new, sits alongside handcrafted pieces, designed to Kylee’s exacting designs, including a handmade dining table flanked by rush benches and vintage French chairs; a distinct live-edge office desk; exquisite bed frames; and beautiful walnut banquettes.
The vertical lines of the bed, cladding, windows, curtaining and rug all chime beautifully
Meanwhile, in the butler’s pantry, a favorite heirloom shopkeeper’s cabinet adds an element of practicality and fun. ‘We created a new walnut back and painted the interior burnt orange, which has introduced a contemporary edge to a classic design,’ says Kylee.
Carefully chosen pieces, including a vintage sconce and an elegant chair, elevate a practical space
Sculptural collections of classic, mid-century and primitive ceramics are accompanied by unique lighting, sourced from among others, Pinch.
This spot in the mezzanine above the main living space has wooden floors painted in smart stripes
This attention to detail and the introduction of inspired decorative quirks, such as the unexpected informal seating areas, raises the comfort and intimacy of the home. ‘The family love to read, play games and catch up – so these cozier pockets make stays feel relaxed and memorable,’ says Kylee.
A ‘floating’ walnut bedside drawer increases the feeling of space
After days of hiking, hunting, boating, kayaking and paddle boarding, the bedrooms are delightfully cocooning: the main suite and a guest suite are on the ground floor, with three further upstairs guest bedrooms and a pair of whimsical, curtained sleeping nooks on the landing – space for extended get-togethers and future grandchildren sleepovers.
The olive-green in the wallpaper adds a wonderful richness
Cultivating the best of the land, with the rawness of nature and graceful luxury, Kylee has created a distinctive sense of place that matches the values and passions of her clients.
Behind curtains on the upstairs landing are sleep spaces with leather wall-mounted headboards
‘The family were a joy to work with and their special home will grow effortlessly with them as their lives continue to evolve.’
Nestled within the trees, the lakeside house forms a magical connection with its surroundings
Words / Ali Heath
Interior design / Kylee Shintaffer
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