La Muna, Ski Chalet by Oppenheim Architecture

La Muna, designed by Oppenheim Architecture + Design, casts off the notion of super-minimalistic architecture by refusing to conform to stark white walls and sharply-cut planes. Instead, it concentrates on the experiential aspect of architecture, offering a number of spaces that are not didactic but rather are a little bit imperfect in character. Through its tallest section, the house stands four stories tall, but these levels are offset in a cascading effect to become its own mountain that competes against nature’s. Located in the Aspens of Colorado, the house embraces the beauty of the surrounding nature through the interplay of textures both inside and outside. Surprisingly, there is warmth in the dark interiors, one that comforts against the chilly cold. Panels of glazing frame the view of the white snowcaps, a contrast to the soft gray couches and chocolate brown wood. A cubby that hides a softly-lit alcove is guarded by a leather armchair, both areas equally warm and inviting. In the living room, a large square relief composed of mossy grass hangs on the wall, a sign of growth and life when the winter falls and the trees are bare.

Via – Photographs: ©Laziz Hamani