Mountain Modern: Capturing the Call of the Wilderness

Three Defining Features of Mountain Modern Home Design
The mountain skyline has long provided a sense of solace. A feeling beautifully captured by John Muir as, “A calm so deep grasses cease waving.” It’s a feeling that is often sought after when designing a home: peace, comfort, serenity.

Today’s mountain style has undergone a modern update. The aesthetic is softer and more comfortable than the traditional interiors commonly associated with cabin retreats and hunting lodges. Rugged and heavy interiors are replaced with intriguing textures, clean lines, and open space. An organic influence can be found throughout the mountain modern home present in the use of natural materials and an intentional connection to nature. Whether your vision for a modern mountain home is inspired by Stowe, Vail, or somewhere yet to be discovered, these key features will help to shape your design.

ID3 Designs draws inspiration from mountain modern style in this Vermont home.

Stay Neutral, but Warm
Mountain modern home design draws influence from organic interior design trends. Although a neutral palette is often present, it is rooted in the richness found in high-country landscapes. Wood tones are synonymous with mountain style. Warm finishes in shades of Spring Wheat and Sierra highlight the natural gain while adding warmth. Pewter and matte charcoal balance these shades and are reminiscent of the hues found in a mountain’s rocky formation. Accents of soft blues, creamy whites, and shades of tan beautifully reflect mountain flora such as Lupine, Aspen Daisy, and cattails.

The Design Studio brings mountain modern style to this Maine home using Matte Storm Cloud and Matte Shale cabinet finishes.

Add Texture and Architectural Accents
Texture creates visual interest within mountain modern home designs to maintain the streamlined look. Architectural accents such as oversized fireplaces, exposed ceiling beams, and peaked rooflines add the comfort of a mountain retreat while maintaining open space. Natural materials such as wood, stone, and metal pair beautifully while creating a union of texture and pattern.

Wood-Mode Custom Cabinetry combines wood and metal accents to create a beautiful contrast in texture.

Embrace Nature
Above all, it is often the wonder and beauty of nature that inspires mountain modern home design. Even if your home is far from a mountain range, the natural rhythms of the outdoors can bring peace to the home and create the sense of calm Muir found during his mountain explorations. Embracing design features that incorporate natural light, fresh air, and plant life not only add beauty but can also enhance well-being.

Upper cabinetry is minimized in favor of mountain views in this kitchen by Cabinets by Design.

Whether your home design is definitively mountain modern, or you are still exploring the concepts that speak to your unique style, our team of designers can help you create a design reflective of your personal sensibilities. As you continue your journey, explore more Wood-Mode home designs to help inspire you, or visit a Wood-Mode showroom near you.