Near Far House Single Family Residential

Near Far House Single Family Residential

Near Far House Single Family Residential is an innovative architectural project that exemplifies the sophisticated integration of built environment with natural landscape, designed by Willis Pember. This contemporary residential structure, located in Aspen, Colorado at an elevation of 8,000 feet, demonstrates a masterful approach to spatial configuration and environmental engagement. The design philosophy draws inspiration from early cubist paintings, incorporating multiple perspectives and scales to create a rich, layered experience of space. Spanning 306.6 square meters of living space with an additional 44.2 square meters dedicated to garage facilities, the residence is situated on a 697-square-meter site. The architectural composition employs a composite construction methodology, utilizing steel frame, engineered wood floor systems, and wood frame elements, complemented by clear-stained cedar and concrete panel rain screens. The exterior features a thoughtful combination of stucco soffits, metal flat seam panels, and cast-in-place concrete, while the interior showcases refined materials including honed concrete floors and plaster walls. A significant achievement of this design lies in its ability to create what is termed as 'near-far' conditions, where the structure mediates between immediate site conditions to the north and distant landscape elements to the south, experienced simultaneously from the upper floor. The project, which required five years of design development and one year of construction, successfully overcomes the challenge of integrating contemporary architecture with an existing 1970s residence while maintaining its distinct temporal identity. This architectural achievement was recognized with a Bronze A' Design Award in the Architecture, Building and Structure Design category, acknowledging its innovative approach to spatial design and environmental integration.

residential architecture, mountain design, landscape integration, contemporary housing, sustainable architecture, cubist-inspired spaces

— Adam Dawson

CITATION : "Adam Dawson. 'Near Far House Single Family Residential.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/define/near-far-house-single-family-residential?E=440627 (Accessed on October 14, 2026)"