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Modern Mountain Living Above Winter Park

Project Spotlight: Northwoods – Modern Mountain Living Above Winter Park

At BHH Partners, we believe great architecture grows from long-standing relationships and a deep connection to place. That’s exactly what makes Northwoods such a meaningful project for our team. More than a decade in the making, Northwoods represents the evolution of our partnership with a visionary developer and our ongoing work shaping the residential landscape of Winter Park.

A Slope-Side Site with Serious Potential

Our journey with Northwoods began around 2013–2014, when the developer first acquired the land. Sitting just across Highway 40 from the slopes of Winter Park and Mary Jane, the property is perched in one of the most striking and strategic locations in the area. With views that directly frame the ski resort and access to the town’s free shuttle, it offers an experience that feels almost ski-in, ski-out without being on the lift line.

Originally part of a previous phase known as Lakota Summit, the lots were platted for triplex buildings. But as the vision evolved, we saw an opportunity to design something more refined. We created a series of luxury duplexes that would fit the same footprint while elevating the living experience. Nestled into the hillside, Northwoods comprises eight buildings—four upslope and four downslope—strategically positioned to take full advantage of both views and privacy.

Contemporary Mountain Architecture with a Bavarian Twist

The architecture of Northwoods walks the line between mountain tradition and modern expression. Drawing on the charm of a Bavarian ski chalet, we gave the design a contemporary update. Instead of heavy timber, the homes feature exposed steel, and layered in tall glass, clean lines, and crisp detailing that feels both bold and welcoming.

Each unit features floor-to-ceiling windows, with 14-foot floor-to-floor heights that create open, airy interiors and allow natural light to pour in. The low-slope rooflines and generous overhangs frame expansive outdoor decks designed for hot tubs, fire pits, and après-ski gatherings with unbeatable mountain views.

Inside, the sculptural staircase made of steel and glue laminated wood becomes a true focal point, transforming a purely functional element into an architectural statement. These homes also feature private elevators, mudrooms, ski storage, garages, and five spacious bedrooms, striking a thoughtful balance between form, practicality, and luxury.

Designing for the Land

Building on a steep hillside always presents challenges. In the case of Northwoods, we approached it like a design puzzle. It required us to think in three dimensions and unlock creative solutions. The result was something of a Rubik’s Cube, with each unit fitting snugly into its topography, every angle intentional, and every elevation optimized.

Rather than fight the slope, we worked with it, embracing the verticality to create homes with a strong presence, inside and out. The final building was completed in 2024. Today, the project’s owner proudly calls Northwoods home. It’s a fitting conclusion to a project rooted in vision, patience, and trust.

A Broader Legacy in Winter Park

Northwoods is one part of our impact in Winter Park, where we’ve designed 24 duplex buildings across several neighborhoods. Adjacent developments include Lakota Reserve, which is now complete, and the newly launched Three Peaks, a high-end enclave currently under construction. The first of its kind, Building #1, is days away from completion. The new owners could not be more excited. Building’s #5 and #6 have just broken ground this fall. Building #2 will be complete by the end of 2025 with Building’s #3 and #4 following close behind.

As Winter Park continues to grow, we’re proud to be part of a community that is evolving thoughtfully. These homes balance luxury with livability, and mountain style with modern performance.

Northwoods reflects everything we value at BHH. Long-term collaboration, site-sensitive design, and a deep respect for Colorado’s alpine beauty. We’re honored to have helped bring this vision to life and excited to see the next chapters take shape.

Want to learn more about building in Winter Park or explore what’s next in the region? Let’s connect.

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Designing for All Seasons

Designing for All Seasons: How Mountain Architecture Adapts to Colorado’s Climate

In Colorado’s high country, the seasons do not ease in, they arrive with force. From deep winter snows to warm summer sun, the mountain climate is beautiful and harsh. And when it comes to architecture, that means designing homes that do more than just weather the seasons, they embrace them.

At BHH Partners, we believe great mountain architecture marries performance with elegance. A well-designed home is not just stunning to look at. It is resilient, comfortable, and built to thrive in the rhythms of Colorado’s ever-changing climate. Here is how we design homes that feel just as right in a snowstorm as they do on a golden summer evening.

Rooflines and Snow Management

In the Rockies, snow is not an occasional guest. It is a season-long resident. Managing snow loads is a critical part of architectural design, and rooflines are the first line of defense.

Sloped roofs with steep pitches and extended overhangs help shed snow naturally while protecting entries and windows from heavy drifts and icicles. Flat roofs, often seen in modern mountain homes, can work too with the right engineering. When paired with internal drainage systems and reinforced structures, they provide clean lines without sacrificing function.

To further support snow management, we often integrate snowmelt systems into our designs, particularly in areas like driveways, walkways, and roof valleys. These systems use either heated fluid or electric elements beneath the surface to actively melt snow and ice. Not only do they improve safety and accessibility, but they also reduce maintenance and help prevent ice damming and structural strain. We also specify durable roofing materials, such as standing seam metal or high-impact composite shingles, that are built to withstand the region’s intense freeze-thaw cycles and heavy snow accumulation.

Materials That Withstand the Elements

Colorado’s mountain climate does not pull punches. UV exposure is intense, temperatures swing wildly, and moisture finds every crack. That is why material selection is both a science and an art.

We turn to natural materials like stone, wood, and metal not just for their aesthetic warmth, but for their performance. Local stone anchors a home to its site. Wood adds texture and tradition. Metal provides durability and contrast. In the end, it’s this balance of raw material and refined protection that allows a home to weather the elements with grace.

Raw materials are only part of the story. Protective finishes such as UV-resistant stains on cedar or rust-inhibiting treatments for steel extend the life of a home while maintaining its character. These are not just cosmetic choices. They are decisions that shape how a home ages over time.

Sun, Shade, and Energy Efficiency

In Colorado’s high country, sunlight is both a gift and a challenge. When harnessed wisely, it becomes a powerful design tool. We use passive solar strategies such as orienting living spaces to the south and positioning windows to capture low winter sun so homes naturally stay warmer when it matters most.

At the same time, deep eaves and exterior shading devices help mitigate summer heat gain. High-performance glazing reduces UV penetration without compromising views. It is all part of a broader strategy to make the most of the sun’s energy while maintaining comfort in every season.

Indoor-Outdoor Living Year-Round

In the mountains, the lines between inside and out are meant to blur. Whether it is a quiet snowfall or a glowing sunset, mountain living is about staying connected to the landscape even in the heart of winter.

We design decks, patios, and terraces that are functional year-round with overhead shelter, fire features, and radiant heat beneath stone pavers. Operable walls and large sliders open interior spaces to fresh air in summer and dramatic views in winter while still maintaining cozy comfort.

It is about more than just outdoor space. It is about creating experiences, whether you are sipping coffee by a fire pit in January or hosting dinner under the stars in July.

Comfort Systems and Resilience

Heating and cooling systems in mountain homes must do more than just check the box. They must adapt to dramatic seasonal shifts and high-elevation performance requirements.

We often incorporate radiant in-floor heat, which offers even warmth with energy efficiency. And as weather grows more unpredictable, we look at backup power solutions, smart home integration, and systems that help homeowners stay comfortable and secure no matter what the forecast holds.

Designing with Place in Mind

Every mountain site tells a different story. From wind patterns and sun angles to snow accumulation and tree cover, these microclimates are essential to understand before pencil ever meets paper. That is why our design process always begins with the land itself.

At BHH, we walk the site, study the topography, and listen to how the environment behaves throughout the year. This guides everything from how we orient rooflines to where we place glazing, outdoor living areas, and protective overhangs. When a home is thoughtfully designed for its place, it not only performs better, it feels right.

Homes Built for All Seasons

Life in the Colorado mountains means being in tune with the environment every day of the year. At BHH Partners, we design homes that do not just endure the seasons. They celebrate them.

From smart rooflines to enduring materials, from passive solar to heated patios, our work blends mountain beauty with all-season performance. Because in our view, a home should be as adaptable as it is inspiring. Ready for bluebird days, blizzards, and everything in between.

Ready to design a home built for every season? Let’s start the conversation.

Creating Meaningful Commercial Spaces

Beyond the Blueprint: Creating Meaningful Commercial Spaces

Commercial architecture brings community to life. It’s the coffee shop buzzing with morning conversations, the coworking space sparking new ideas, the town hall filled with voices that shape the future. At BHH Partners, we believe great commercial design does more than create a place to do business. It creates a place to belong. From Main Street storefronts to public gathering spaces, we craft environments that reflect the spirit of Colorado’s mountain towns and the people who make them vibrant.

Purpose-Driven Design

Every commercial space has a story. It might be a neighborhood gathering spot, a performance venue, or a lively retail shop. Our purpose-driven design process begins with understanding who will use the space, how they’ll move through it, and the experience it should create. From there, we design forms that meet these needs beautifully and effectively.

While commercial and residential architecture serve different functions, they share a common goal: to create spaces that feel intuitive, welcoming, and well-suited to their users. Commercial projects often involve broader groups, complex systems, and evolving demands. We approach each project with the same care and attention to detail as our homes, balancing efficiency with meaningful experiences.

We see every technical challenge as an opportunity for thoughtful commercial design. A theatre isn’t just seating and sightlines. It’s sound, flow, and atmosphere. A bar isn’t just a counter. It’s lighting, technology, and movement. In every commercial space, we aim to elevate the experience through smart, expressive choices that feel effortless yet intentional.

Commercial Design Rooted in Context

Designing commercial spaces in Colorado’s mountain towns requires deep respect for context – architectural, cultural, and natural. For us, this goes beyond visual fit. It’s about creating commercial architecture that supports local life and business in authentic ways. Drawing from historical styles, local materials, and surrounding landscapes, our designs feel rooted in their setting while serving today’s communities. Whether it’s a corner café, town hall, or small business hub, each commercial project is designed to belong.

A Collaborative Approach

Great commercial architecture is built through collaboration. We work closely with clients, consultants, and communities to ensure every voice is heard and every vision respected. This collaborative mindset leads to thoughtful, inclusive spaces that meet real-world needs.

Leaving a Lasting Impact

Our commercial projects are built to last, both in structure and in meaning. Whether it’s a cozy café, civic pavilion, or bustling retail space, our goal remains the same: to create places where people feel welcome, inspired, and connected.

Explore our multifamily and commercial architecture work to see how our approach transforms spaces and strengthens communities.

If you’re ready to bring your commercial project to life, we’re here to help. Let’s design something impactful together.

At BHH Partners, we believe when commercial architecture is done right, it doesn’t just stand out. It brings people together.

Why Multifamily Architecture Matters in Mountain Towns

Smart Multifamily Solutions for Living in the Mountains

The Role of Multifamily Housing in High-Demand Mountain Communities

In mountain towns, demand for housing is rising, but land is limited, and the character of these places is worth protecting. Multifamily architecture offers a thoughtful path forward. By designing with care, context, and community in mind, we can create housing that not only meets the moment but strengthens the fabric of the towns we love.

Design That Supports Community

Mountain towns offer more than a view; they offer a way of life. With close-knit neighborhoods, access to the outdoors, and a deep sense of place, these communities are drawing more people in. But as interest grows, housing becomes harder to find. Workers face long commutes, families are priced out, and small businesses struggle to retain staff.

Multifamily housing provides a smart, scalable way to help towns grow without losing what makes them special. Thoughtful design allows us to increase housing supply while maintaining the quality, character, and connection these communities are known for.

Well-designed apartments, townhomes, duplexes, and mixed-use buildings can fit seamlessly into the landscape, offering flexible housing options that support a year-round population and a thriving local economy.

Making Multifamily Feel Like Home

We often hear a common concern: people want multifamily housing to feel more like a personal home, not a generic apartment complex. That’s where design matters.

We approach every project with this goal: create spaces that feel human-scaled, connected to the land, and grounded in the local architectural language. That means:

Private entries and varied rooflines to make buildings feel approachable
Breaking down building massing to fit with the natural scale of the neighborhood
Designing to the slope of the land rather than flattening it
Maximizing light, views, and privacy for each unit

Outdoor spaces, balconies, courtyards, and patios are thoughtfully integrated to extend daily living and support connection to nature.

Designing with Respect for Place

We understand that new housing can raise concerns. Neighbors want to know how larger buildings will fit into their streetscapes or impact property values. That’s why we lead with empathy and design with intention.

Because of our background in custom residential architecture, we bring that same level of care to every multifamily project. We’re not interested in copy-paste solutions. Instead, we focus on:

Listening to community concerns
Designing in a way that feels familiar, not forced
Honoring existing neighborhood character and elevating it through craftsmanship

Multifamily doesn’t need to feel like an outlier, it can feel like a natural part of the landscape when designed with respect.

Built for the Mountain Climate

Designing homes in a mountain environment means facing unique challenges: snow loads, steep slopes, freeze-thaw cycles, and shifting seasonal conditions. Our work accounts for all of it.

That includes:

Durable materials built for performance and longevity
Heated entries and protected walkways
Smart snow-shedding strategies and roof drainage
Integrated ski and gear storage for everyday function

Multifamily buildings amplify these challenges with shared systems, larger roofs, and more residents. That’s why climate-responsive design is essential, not just to meet code, but to create comfort and longevity for everyone who lives there.

A Path Forward for Summit County (and Beyond)

Here in Summit County, and in mountain towns across the West, these housing questions aren’t theoretical. They affect daily life. We see how the housing shortage impacts the people who make these towns run and how multifamily design can be part of the solution.

In Summit County and other high-demand mountain towns, these housing conversations aren’t theoretical. They’re personal. We see every day how the housing shortage affects the people who make these communities thrive.

We believe that with the right approach, multifamily housing can be both a solution and a reflection of what makes these places so loved. It can be personal, well-crafted, and deeply connected to the community.

To see how we’re bringing this approach to life, explore our Multifamily and Commercial Architecture spotlight.

Because in the end, this work isn’t just about buildings. It’s about creating lasting value for people, for neighborhoods, and for the mountain towns we’re proud to call home.

Guide to Architectural Design

Your Guide to Architectural Design in the Colorado Rockies

Laying the Foundation for Mountain Living

Designing and building a home in the Rocky Mountains is a unique opportunity—one filled with both excitement and complexity. The region’s rugged terrain, dramatic climate shifts, and distinct regulatory environment demand thoughtful planning and a deep appreciation for the land.

While building in the Rockies presents its share of challenges, it also offers the chance to create something truly extraordinary: a home that embraces the landscape, withstands the elements, and enhances your connection to the natural world.

Site Planning & Terrain Challenges

Mountain properties come with stunning views and a sense of seclusion, but they also call for strategic planning. With a creative, informed approach, you can turn terrain challenges into standout design features:

Slope & Drainage
Homes built on steep sites can follow the natural contours of the land, using terracing, retaining walls, and smart drainage solutions to manage runoff, minimize erosion, and enhance curb appeal.

Balancing Views with Efficiency
A successful design maximizes scenic views while also considering solar orientation, wind protection, and energy efficiency for year-round comfort.

Protecting the Natural Landscape
Thoughtful site placement reduces the need for major excavation and tree removal, preserving the beauty and ecology of your property.

Designing for Mountain Climate

The Rockies are known for their extreme temperature fluctuations, heavy snowfall, and strong winds. Resilient design choices help ensure your home remains comfortable and efficient through all seasons:

Snow Load & Roof Design
Rooflines should be engineered for heavy snow, with appropriate pitch and durable materials like metal to ensure longevity and ease of maintenance.

Passive Solar Strategies
Smart orientation, south-facing windows, deep overhangs, and thermal mass materials (like stone or concrete) help regulate interior temperatures naturally.

High-Performance Insulation & Windows
Energy-efficient insulation and triple-pane windows keep your mountain home warm in winter, cool in summer, and quiet year-round.

Structural & Material Considerations

A mountain home should be built to last. Designed to endure harsh weather and harmonize with the natural surroundings:

Durable, Weather-Resistant Materials
Natural stone, reclaimed wood, and metal siding not only provide durability but also help the home blend into its environment.

Fire-Resistant Features
In wildfire-prone areas, non-combustible materials and strategic landscaping (or defensible space) protect your home while maintaining its aesthetic appeal.

Foundation & Structural Integrity
Sloped lots invite creative solutions—from reinforced foundations to multi-level layouts that celebrate the topography rather than fight it.

Navigating Local Codes & Regulations

Understanding local building codes, zoning, and environmental requirements is essential to keeping your project on track. With the right guidance, the process can be smooth and empowering:

Permitting & Zoning
Mountain towns often have unique guidelines reflecting their character. Partnering with an architect who knows the local landscape can help streamline the process.

HOA & Community Standards
If you’re building in a planned community, aligning with design guidelines ensures your home complements its surroundings and maintains neighborhood harmony.

Wildlife & Environmental Considerations
From migratory routes to native vegetation, building responsibly ensures your home lives in harmony with the ecosystem around it.

Bringing Your Mountain Home to Life

Designing a home in the Rockies is more than a construction project, it’s a personal journey rooted in place and purpose. With the right architectural partner, you’ll move from vision to reality with confidence, creativity, and care.

At BHH Partners, we specialize in custom mountain home design. Our team brings deep expertise in terrain-driven planning, architectural craftsmanship, and the nuances of mountain living. Whether you envision a cozy cabin or a contemporary alpine retreat, we’re here to guide you—every step of the way.

Let’s create a home that captures your vision, honors the land, and stands the test of time in the heart of the Rockies.

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