DBX 7

Client: Private
Location: Aspen, Colorado
Project Status: Scheduled for completion in 2021

DBX Lot 7 Residence is located in the prestigious Double Bar X (DBX) Ranch near Aspen, CO. The property sits at the nexus of former ranch lands, featuring open meadows, and the base of Red Butte mountain. The building envelope of this stunning site was partially located in a drainage gulley. Connect One Design worked to keep the gulley intact and celebrate its presence with grass steps that fan out at the end of the ravine before embracing the open lawn below. The architecture of the home is also designed to take advantage of the sloping site, with a 13’ drop between the main floor and lower level. The plant palette is conceived to blend seamlessly with the native upland sage and riparian vegetation communities found on the rest of the property. The property includes an agricultural easement restricting development and maintaining the beloved aesthetic of the DBX neighborhood. The only improvement made to the agricultural easement was minimal tree planting for privacy and the addition of the driveway.

A curated road design defines the arrival experience, which opens to the dramatic river plain below upon entering the house’s airy glass exterior. Connect One created the landscape plan as an extension of the architectural forms. Thus, the ground plane mirrors the reflective symmetry of the walls, and breaks in the architectural mass are accentuated by the echoing water feature. Inspired by valley trails as they cross scree fields, a walkway of contrasting black granite connects the auto court with the front door and seemingly floats over the water feature. Behind the home, an infinity-edge hot tub is located at the edge of a large indoor/outdoor great room with a comfortable, inviting sunken seating area looking out to Red Butte. This private retreat includes an outdoor wet bar, entertainment system, and large, finely finished concrete fire table for endless entertaining or quiet introspection.