Blue Ridge Mountain House

Blue Ridge Mountains, VA

Perched 2700 feet above sea level on the very top of a mountain and with sweeping 360 degree views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah Valley below this mountain retreat is designed as the ultimate viewing machine.

Situated on a 1000 acres, The Mountain House is the tallest man made structure in the area and is accessed by a long winding private road that climbs its way up the mountain. A massive stone plinth extends out of the mountain forming a protective wall against wildlife such as bears, cougars and rattlesnakes while creating a plateau to which the first floor living spaces can extend onto.

The first floor is defined as a glassy pavilion reminiscent of Mies Van Der Rohes ‘Neue Nationalgalerie’ located in Berlin, the plan type allows 360 degree views and is designed with a minimal structural layout to maximize views. A water filled moat and pool extend around the stone plinths perimeter acting as an invisible ‘guard rail’ and further heightening the sensation of hovering above the valley floor. An exterior pea gravel courtyard located between the pavilion and guest bedroom shelters an outdoor dining and fire pit area from the prevailing wind.

Small cabin like bedrooms articulated with warm stained wood interiors are arrayed on the 2nd floor and take full advantage of the valley views below. A third floor with unbelievable views completes the stacked composition and houses an office and adjoining sitting room with roof top terrace.

This is the mountain house James Bond ordered.