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Steamboat Magazine

Into the Woods

03/17/2016 01:27PM ● By Dan Greeson

By Johannah K. Hall

Driving the scenic back roads of North Routt to reach Matt and Lisa Bond’s home on the west side of Steamboat Lake soothes the soul. The Bonds’ vacation home – based on a traditional old English frame vernacular – is an elegant and comfortable getaway that provides just the right amount of space for the couple, their dog and a few guests. 

Stepping through the front door into the warmly lit, timber-framed cabin in the woods has one wishing for a blanket and a good book to enjoy by the fire. Sand Mountain forms a dramatic backdrop through a stand of aspens. 

The relative simplicity and traditional layout of the home allowed the architects at Kelly and Stone to take the details to the next level. Craftsmen at Dover Development and Construction implemented the design. 

The vaulted ceiling in the main living area showcases the wood frame made of Douglas fir, which was custom cut in British Columbia by Hamil Creek Timber Frames, then built in the traditional method, using wood-to-wood mortise and tendon joints pegged with red oak. A stairway made of three-inch thick solid oak treads leads up to an open plan lofted reading nook between the two upstairs bedrooms. 

Floor-to-ceiling dry stack stonework is a focal point of the living room fireplace. The limestone chosen was quarried in Montana and sourced through Gallegos in Rifle. The mantle for the fireplace was custom made using three quarter inch plate steel. Above it rests an oil painting by local contemporary Western artist John Fawcett, depicting the couple’s dogs past and present, titled Family Bond. 

A spacious kitchen centers on an oversized granite island. The countertop, reminiscent of volcanic formations, is soothingly rough to the touch. The induction stove in the middle of the island adds a modern touch to the workspace. Fossils and geodes are on display throughout the kitchen and great room, in keeping with the home’s Western interior. The lower floor is complete with a cozy master bedroom and spacious bathroom. 

One of the couple’s favorite aspects of the house is the attention to detail within the timber frame. Originally wanting a log cabin, the Bonds came over to the idea of a custom timber frame for the artistry and visual creativity that could come into play. “Tom Dover’s care for his craft and overall skill really made the building process enjoyable” says Matt. The result is an efficient living space that seems larger than 3,200 square feet, due to the innovative design. 

For the Bonds, North Routt is a place close to their hearts. Having spent a great deal of time in Colorado before moving to New Jersey, they wanted to build their mountain home in a location where outdoor adventures are boundless and the people are friendly, a place with a relaxing vibe and just enough seclusion to feel like an escape. The North Routt community is all of those things and more. “It’s about what you end up calling home, and you can really fall in love with it,” says Matt.