At Powder Mountain Ski Resort in Eden, Utah, Sparano + Mooney Architecture designed a ski-in, ski-out residence shaped by the principles of kirigami, the Japanese art of cutting and folding paper. The concept guided both the form and surface of the house, where bent metal planes wrap the structure and respond to the exposed alpine terrain. The project reflects the clients’ long-standing interest in Japanese design and establishes a winter retreat that balances precision, durability, and calm interior environments.
HOUSING
The home occupies a high-elevation site that receives an average of 225 inches of snow annually and faces wind speeds reaching 110 miles per hour. Sparano + Mooney Architecture developed a structure capable of supporting heavy snow loads while maintaining a clear architectural identity. Custom TEKKō steel cladding defines the exterior, combining solid and perforated panels that fold across the upper level and courtyard. Standing seams extend across surfaces and turn at corners, reinforcing the folded geometry. The steel-zinc composite resists corrosion and performs reliably under harsh mountain conditions.
Inside, the layout supports multigenerational living and long-term accessibility. Residents enter through the garage and move along a corridor with elevator access to the main living level. This configuration allows aging in place while maintaining independence between floors. The primary suite sits on an upper level raised five feet above the main floor, where a private deck and steam shower create a secluded zone that can remain separate from shared spaces.
The central living areas prioritize openness and continuity. The main kitchen avoids overhead cabinetry and suspended fixtures, allowing uninterrupted sightlines across the room and toward the landscape. A secondary scullery kitchen, located near the media room, includes a built-in bar and additional preparation space. The dining area connects directly to an exterior courtyard through a multi-slide door system, extending interior functions outward.
Material selection reinforces the architectural concept. Hem fir defines walls and ceilings throughout the house, while rift white oak cabinetry introduces tonal variation. Black granite counters and polished concrete floors provide contrast and durability. In the onsen-inspired bathing area, cedar surfaces introduce aroma and warmth, paired with stone tile flooring suited to wet conditions.
The building operates entirely on propane due to its remote location and relies on radiant heating for efficiency. Deep overhangs and operable windows regulate solar gain and cooling, while high-performance insulation and glazing strengthen energy performance. Through folded steel geometry, carefully structured interiors, and a resilient environmental strategy, Sparano + Mooney Architecture created a mountain residence that aligns architectural form with climate, craft, and daily use.
