Continental Divide House

Perched on a small knoll just below the ridgeline, the Continental Divide House captures sweeping views of both the Continental Divide and the surrounding Roosevelt National Forest. Tall pine trees, thick aspen groves, and intermittent meadows create a rich natural environment for the family of five to enjoy, grow, and make memories in for decades to come. While the setting is visually stunning, it also presents challenges—harsh winds, extreme cold, and intense sun exposure.

The 2,680 square-foot house is designed to both engage playfully with the site and provide much-needed protection from the elements. The corrugated Corten steel–clad, wedge-shaped form follows the slope of the land, creating a vaulted main living space that rises to accommodate bedrooms stacked above a carport on the high side. The rusted Corten exterior offers a durable, low-maintenance envelope whose patina blends naturally with the surrounding landscape, recalling the industrial mountain shacks of the previous century. Large windows and doors establish a constant dialogue with the outdoors and provide passive solar gain to reduce heating demands.

Four distinct outdoor spaces—one on each side of the home—soften the angular geometry and create a variety of ways to experience the site. On the east side, the wedge is carved away to form a covered carport for two vehicles. To the south, a generous porch roof shelters the front entry and offers a sunny spot for morning coffee. On the west, another cutaway creates an outdoor living area with dramatic views of the surrounding peaks. Finally, the north side features a covered dining porch adjacent to the kitchen, perfect for summer meals.

Inside, wood-clad volumes define the private spaces and bring a welcome warmth and texture to the experience. The entry, situated between two of these volumes, allows a direct view through the house and invites movement toward the outdoors. To the west, the main living, dining, and kitchen areas serve as the heart of family life. Stairs tucked into the entry volume lead to the upper level, where the primary suite enjoys a sense of retreat from the children’s bedrooms. The primary suite feels cozy yet open, with views to the north and an adjacent office loft overlooking the living area below. The children’s rooms face south and feature vaulted ceilings with loft spaces perfect for play and hideouts.

The Continental Divide House offers a modern interpretation of a simple mountain dwelling. Through the use of humble materials and an efficient floor plan, it makes thoughtful design both accessible and enduring.

TEAM: 

Architecture – Comeaux Architects – Brian Comeaux, AIA, Rebecca Comeaux, AIA

Interior Design – Comeaux Architects – Brian Comeaux, AIA, Rebecca Comeaux, AIA 

Structural Engineer – KL&A Engineers 

Landscape Design – Comeaux Architects 

Contractor – TBD