Inside a 7,500-Square-Foot Vail Build with Natural Allure

Great Room Reclaimed wood and over-grouting on the stonework add some mountain warmth into a more traditional interior. The interconnected, open feel encourages relaxed gatherings, long dinners and good conversations. | Photo: Kirsten Webster

A family from Atlanta had been coming to Vail for decades, eventually transitioning to a single-family residence in West Vail—a home that they felt was their long-term place. That plan changed, however, when they visited a gorgeous lot in East Vail near a seasonal waterfall and a creek. “Being able to step outside and fish or sit by the water is a simple luxury that never gets old,” the homeowner says.

When it came to building on the lot, the husband had a modern vision, and the wife, a more traditional style. Turnipseed Arch­itecture collaborated with them, delivering a transitional exterior with modern elements and a modern roofline for the 7,500-square-foot home. With six bedrooms, eight bath­rooms and four fireplaces, the home sports reclaimed wood beams and columns on
the main floor.

Entry “Seeing the design evolve into a place that reflects nature, connection and the shared experiences that we value made building our Vail family home especially fulfilling,” says the homeowner. | Photo: Kirsten Webster

Inside, designer Frances Karsh melded traditional limestone fireplace surrounds with modern lighting and windows, elegantly bridging the styles. Expansive windows bring natural light into the interior, making the home feel open and inviting. The great room unites the kitchen, hearth, dining and living spaces, while two bedroom suites are tucked away from the bustle. The kitchen’s oversize island provides ample space for a crowd, and the hall beside it leads to a pantry, coffee bar and a deck overlooking the river.

The easy flow of the spacious living areas on the main floor encourage long dinners, game nights and good conversations. “Our goal was to create a strong connection between the house and its surroundings, so the landscape feels like an extension of the living space,” the homeowner says. “One of the elements we love most is how seamlessly the outdoor spaces extend the living space.”

Kitchen Even cozy, fireside conversations are open to guests in the connecting great room and kitchen. The waterfall view changes seasonally from hikers in summer to winter ice climbing. | Photo: Kirsten Webster

On the lower level, three well-appointed bedrooms and a bunk room accommodate guests and the couple’s expanding family. Builder Dave Hilb crafted custom side tables to frame in the sofa and a wooden wall-to-ceiling surround in the family room—a special space that opens to a bar and TV area and also includes a golf simulator.

“This home was designed to support time together across generations that reflects our shared love of skiing, fishing, the outdoors and the sense of community that has drawn us back to Vail year after year,” the homeowner says.

Primary Bath The homeowners enjoy post-ski soaks in the luxurious freestanding tub. | Photo: Kirsten Webster

Mudroom Reclaimed European wood and built-in benches organize the mess of an active, outdoor lifestyle. | Photo: Kirsten Webster

Bedroom Suite In this warm and welcoming guest room, bright natural light from oversize windows with a creek view ensure the landscape feels like an extension of the living space. | Photo: Kirsten Webster

Design Details

Interior Design: Karsh Interiors
Architect: Turnipseed Architecture

As seen in Colorado Homes & Lifestyles’ March/April 2026 issue.