Knoll House: 2026 GB Design Build Architectural Design Contest

Knoll House

Perched on a remote 500-acre mountain property outside Steamboat Springs, Colorado, this modern retreat is thoughtfully draped over a natural knoll, allowing the architecture to nestle into the surrounding valley while capturing expansive panoramic views. A palette of natural materials create a seamless connection to the rugged alpine landscape, offering a private sanctuary that celebrates the beauty and solitude of Colorado’s high country.

Project Information

  • Lot: 500 Acre
  • House: 7,300 SF
  • 4 Bed
  • 4.5 Bath
  • 3 Car Garage
Modern glass and concrete house with large windows, set in a snowy landscape at sunset, surrounded by frosty bushes and hills under a colorful sky.
A modern two-story house with large glass windows sits in a rocky, shrub-covered landscape at sunset, with mountains in the background and two people relaxing near a small outdoor pool.
Modern multi-level home with large windows, terraces, people relaxing in outdoor pools and on patios, surrounded by landscaped greenery and natural rocks at dusk.
Two people stand outside a modern house at dusk, featuring large windows, stone and wood walls, outdoor lighting, landscaping, and a big rock near the entrance.
Modern house with large windows and multiple sections nestled in a hilly, shrub-filled landscape. A white pickup truck is parked in the driveway near the entrance. Mountains and a cloudy sky are visible in the background.
Modern living room with brown couches, a fireplace, large windows showing a sunset, and an adjacent dining area with a table and chandelier. Warm lighting creates a cozy atmosphere.

Legend

Main Level
1. Garage
2. Mud
3. Entry Foyer
4. Outdoor Kitchen
5. Pool
6. Main Pool Patio
7. Green Roof
8. Pantry
9. Kitchen
10. Powder
11. Living
12. Deck
13. Dine
14. Primary

Lower Level
15. Lower Living
16. Bunk Bed
17. Mech
18. Laundry
19. Gym
20. Bed 1
21. Bed 2
22. Lower Pool Patio
23. Hot Tub
24. Sauna
25. Outdoor Living
26. Storage

Black and white architectural floor plan with labeled rooms, garage, and outdoor area visible, split into two main sections, showing the layout of various spaces and doors throughout the structure.

Part of the GB Design Build Custom Home Design Competition

This concept is one of five original home designs created as part of the Architecture Contest: Exploring Custom Mountain Home Design Each designer was challenged to create a unique custom home from the exact same homesite, resulting in five distinct architectural solutions shaped by different ideas, priorities, and creative approaches.

Explore the other entries, learn more about the competition, and cast your vote for your favorite design. Every vote helps celebrate the creativity and innovation of our architectural design team.

View All Entries