Blur Residence is a striking study in contrast. By day, the home appears as a dark, sculptural form floating above the landscape; by night, it glows from within, projecting warmth onto the surrounding hillside. Designed for a family of art collectors, the residence blurs the boundary between architecture and nature, balancing rugged exterior materials with bright, refined interiors.
The minimalist design embraces Modernist principles while responding to the realities of mountain living. Expansive glazing frames sweeping views, white interiors provide a gallery-like backdrop for the homeowners’ art collection, and durable exterior materials allow the home to withstand the region’s demanding climate without compromising its architectural expression.
Featured in dwell
2019 AIA Colorado: Award of Excellence
The exterior is clad in CUSTOM shou sugi ban Western Red Cedar, selected for its rich texture, natural character, and ability to perform in a challenging mountain environment. The dark charred finish creates a bold architectural statement while allowing the residence to recede into the landscape, reinforcing the project’s dialogue between light and shadow.
Crafted using the traditional shou sugi ban process, the CUSTOM product was carefully charred, cooled, brushed, and sealed to accentuate the cedar’s natural grain while enhancing its durability. The charred surface offers increased resistance to weathering while creating subtle tonal variation that shifts with changing light conditions. Available for both interior and exterior applications—and with an optional Class A Fire Rating for interior use—the CUSTOM Western Red Cedar provides architects with a versatile, high-performance wood solution that celebrates the authenticity of natural materials.
The project required an exterior cladding capable of delivering a dramatic architectural presence while performing in Colorado’s high-altitude climate. RESAWN supplied Western Red Cedar to achieve the desired balance of texture, durability, and long-term weathering performance, allowing the home to maintain its distinctive appearance while aging naturally over time.
Studio B Architecture + Interiors is an award-winning design practice recognized for creating concept-driven contemporary architecture throughout the Mountain West. Through a collaborative process rooted in exploration and craftsmanship, the firm develops highly responsive buildings that connect clients to their surroundings while delivering enduring, thoughtfully detailed design.
