Designing for the Slope
Designing for the Slope: Smart Strategies for Building on Mountain Terrain
In Colorado’s high country, some of the most stunning homes are also the most complex to design. Lots with big views often come with steep slopes, tricky access, and a unique set of site challenges. Still, for many homeowners, that perfect piece of land is worth the extra effort. At BHH Partners, we help our clients make the most of their property by planning carefully from the start.
Whether you’re exploring land purchases or already own a lot with unique elevation, there are key factors to consider before building. Having helped families create homes across Breckenridge, Keystone, and Winter Park, we know that every site tells a different story. Here’s how we ensure your home is thoughtfully designed to fit your land, your lifestyle, and your vision.
Terrain is More Than Just a Backdrop
The slope of your lot plays a major role in shaping the design of your home. Flat land is rare in the mountains. Most sites climb or fall quickly, which affects everything from foundation design to overall height.
We often tell clients that for every ten percent of slope, construction costs can increase by roughly ten percent. While this varies depending on site conditions and design goals, it helps explain why early planning and experienced guidance are so important.

Foundations That Fit the Land
The mountain doesn’t move for us, so we design around it. A steep or rocky site might call for a stepped foundation, drilled piers, or even excavation into bedrock. In some cases, entire hillsides are reshaped and reinforced with soil nails to make space for a home.
We work closely with engineers to make sure the foundation is secure and long-lasting. A solid base allows everything else to fall into place, and it’s especially important when you’re building on complex terrain. Getting this part right early on can save time and money as the project moves forward.
Understanding Water, Snow, and Sunlight
In the mountains, gravity always wins. That means we need to think carefully about drainage, water flow, and snow management from the beginning. When snow piles up, it eventually melts, and where that water goes matters.
Our designs take into account roof pitch, overhangs, and where snow will naturally shed. We incorporate waterproof materials, snow fences, and heated gutters to manage runoff safely. The orientation of the home also matters. South-facing driveways and living spaces get more sun, which helps with melting and comfort throughout the year.

Starting With a Walk on Site
One of our favorite parts of the process is meeting clients at the site early on. Walking the land together allows us to see what you see. Which direction are the best views? Where does the sun rise and set? What areas will stay shaded or icy in the winter?
These visits help us understand not just the logistics of the lot, but also your vision for how you want to live there. From there, we can start shaping a design that makes the most of the site’s strengths while planning carefully around any challenges.
Navigating Local Guidelines
Every town and county has its own design standards. These rules affect building height, site coverage, and how homes interact with the surrounding landscape. One of the biggest challenges we see on sloped lots is meeting height requirements, which are often measured from natural grade.
With most mountain homes that are two or three stories, it takes thoughtful design to stay within the rules without compromising the view or interior layout. We’re familiar with the local processes and help our clients move through them smoothly and confidently.
Advice for Buyers and Future Homeowners
If you’re considering a sloped or view-oriented lot, it’s important to weigh both the potential and the complexity. The views may be incredible, but building on challenging terrain often requires more thoughtful planning, engineering, and upfront investment.
These sites can lead to some of the most inspiring homes we’ve had the privilege to design. With the right team and a clear understanding of your goals, we can turn even the most complex lot into something exceptional. We help our clients navigate costs, align expectations, and find creative ways to bring their vision to life.
If you’re starting to explore the idea of building on a mountain lot, we’d love to walk the land with you. The earlier we connect, the more we can uncover; opportunities, challenges, and everything in between. From first conversations to final details, we’re here to design a home that fits the land, your lifestyle, and your future.






















