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Have you ever imagined a luxurious mountain retreat that not only connects you deeply with nature but also treads lightly on the planet? In the heart of Snowmass Base Village, Colorado, a new development has emerged that does just that: Aura Snowmass. This exclusive collection of twenty-one ski-in/ski-out residences isn't just another high-end project; it's a testament to the power of mass timber construction and sustainable design principles, offering a uniquely modern take on traditional alpine architecture.
So, what makes Aura so special? Beyond its prime location flanked by the vast playground of Snowmass Resort, it's the very bones of the buildings – the exposed cross-laminated timber (CLT) structure – that sets it apart. This wasn't a mere aesthetic choice; it was a deliberate decision driven by a commitment to mitigate the effects of new development on climate change and align with sustainable design. As developer Andy Gunion aptly put it, "A mass timber structure turned out to be the perfect fit for the direction we wanted to take on the aesthetics of the project," Andy Gunion said. - East West Partners
Think about it: traditionally, mountain architecture often conjures images of heavy timber framing. Aura takes this a step further, embracing the engineered beauty of mass timber. This choice not only infuses the interiors with a strong biophilic design expression by leaving much of the timber exposed but also significantly reduces the building’s embodied carbon footprint. Isn't it compelling how a structural material can contribute so directly to environmental responsibility while simultaneously enhancing the living experience?
The stats speak for themselves. Completed in 2023, Aura stands as a five-story multi-family building encompassing an impressive 100,907 square feet. Categorized as a Construction Type III-A building utilizing a Mass Timber building system and Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT), Aura showcases the viability and appeal of this innovative construction method for residential projects.
The decision to use mass timber wasn't just about sustainability; it also played a crucial role in the aesthetic vision for Aura. The exposed CLT creates a sense of warmth and connection to the natural world, perfectly complementing the luxurious finishes and the breathtaking up-mountain and down-valley views. Imagine the feeling of living within a structure where the very material speaks of the forest from which it came.
"We’re thrilled with how the design turned out and how the market is receiving it," Andy Gunion said. - East West Partners
And indeed, the market response was swift, with six of the twenty-one ultra-luxury residences selling in just the first six weeks of sales. This enthusiasm underscores the growing appreciation for both sustainable construction and thoughtful design in high-end residential developments. In fact, Aura has now sold out its residential collection, welcoming twenty-one owner families. This success hints at a broader trend: discerning buyers are increasingly prioritizing homes that reflect their values, including environmental consciousness.
Beyond the innovative use of mass timber, Aura also boasts impressive sustainability credentials. These ultra-efficient, all-electric homes utilize 100% renewable energy sources, resulting in zero ongoing carbon emissions from the building itself. This commitment to minimizing environmental impact extends beyond the structure to the very operation of the residences.
The project team behind Aura brought together a wealth of expertise to bring this vision to life. KL&A Engineers and Builders served as the Structural Engineer, ensuring the integrity and stability of the mass timber structure. The architectural vision was crafted by 4240 Architecture , who skillfully blended modern design with the inherent beauty of the exposed wood. The project was spearheaded by Owner / Developers Andrew Gunion and East West Partners, with Haselden Construction serving as the General Contractor. The collaboration of these talented teams was instrumental in the successful realization of Aura Snowmass.
For prospective homeowners, Aura offered more than just stunning architecture and a prime location. The residences were designed with health and wellness in mind, featuring an abundance of natural light, exceptional indoor air quality, and those striking biophilic design elements. The spacious four- and five-bedroom flex floor plans catered to both full-time and second-home mountain living. Inside, gourmet kitchens with high-end Wolf appliances, expansive terraces, and private bathrooms in every bedroom/bunkroom provided the ultimate in comfort and luxury. Two elegant finish packages, Contemporary and Alpine, allowed owners to personalize their spaces.
Aura also fostered a strong sense of community and access to the mountain lifestyle. Amenities included private ski lockers (which cleverly transform into bike storage in warmer months), the Aura Lounge for social gatherings, the serene Aura Grotto with spa pools, a private fitness studio, a saltwater Village pool, on-site concierge, and a luge shuttle service.
While Aura Snowmass has achieved a successful sell-out, its legacy serves as an inspiring example for future developments. It demonstrates that luxury, innovative construction, and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand. Projects like Aura are paving the way for a more sustainable and architecturally rich future in the built environment.
Project Team:
Owner / Developer: Andrew Gunion & East West Partners
Architect: 4240 Architecture
Structural Engineer: KL&A Engineers and Builders
General Contractor: Haselden Construction
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
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