Cascading terraces wrap the estate, framing distinct vistas of Hunter Creek, Red Mountain, and Independence Pass. The home sits high on a ridgeline, and the estate dramatically chases the grade allowing for a stepped topography. Designing the estate with a dramatic grade capitalizes framing the landscape. At least two sides of each room provide tailored views of the surrounding mountainside. The scale, proportion, materiality, and detailing of the house are very traditional. The house has all stone facades with hand-cut sandstone terraces. The architect took meticulous care in providing the twenty five variations of stone samples to ensure the cornering, color, and proportions were in complete harmony. The slate roof and exposed, chamfered rafter tales accent the traditional stone facade. The estate includes seven bedrooms, ornate wine cellar, theatre, library, gourmet kitchen, indoor/outdoor dining, and dramatic octagonal stair. The living room is a double height space with a gallery above, which serves as a bridge connecting various wings of the house. The kitchen highlights a prep island and butler's space for traditional service. The custom cabinets are complimented by the carved limestone range surround. The layout of the kitchen is programmed around the staff and traditional service dining. The octagonal stair has an interior radius that overlaps itself. The design of the stair is accented by iron railing, a carved banister seat, and an ornate wood profile. The exterior of the stair highlights its verticality by graduating the stone upward. While the program of West Buttermilk Ranch utilizes traditional design, it is further affirmed in the detailing of the house. From custom, hand-crafted light fixtures to plaster finish; the West Buttermilk Ranch pays specific tribute to traditional detailing. The construction process was meticulous and emphatic, spanning three years ensuring that every detail was fitting to a countryside estate. The countless iterations of stone and plaster sample exemplify the extreme care and precision that went into the design of the West Buttermilk Ranch.
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