Aspen Peak - Niche Media - Aspen living at its peak
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ABODE & BEYOND The grand terraces at West Buttermilk Ranch are designed to maximize views. DINING BY DESIGN Sleek, modern looks make alfresco entertaining a breeze. AFTER BEING COOPED UP INSIDE ALL WINTER, INCREDIBLE OUTDOOR ENTERTAINING SPACES ARE WHAT MATTER MOST WHEN THE WEATHER WARMS. BY DALENE ROVENSTINE F ollowing a winter of hibernation, there's nothing more cathartic than cleaning off the patio, retrieving the summer furniture, and spending time outdoors. With the change of seasons, the must-have amenity in Aspen homes shifts to a lavish outdoor entertainment spot. "Whether it's a large wraparound deck or an expansive patio, the more useful the outdoor space, the better," says Ben Roos, broker associate at Aspen Snowmass Sotheby's International Realty (970-925-6060; aspensnowmasssir.com). Any residence can host guests under the stars by "A space doesn't have to be large to make the most of a view."—ROBERT SINCLAIR 160 utilizing the area properly. For example, a small lot in the West End can accommodate a great open-air patio; "it just takes a little more imagination," Roos says. "The best entertaining spaces flow well from one area to the next or have several spots where people can gather in smaller groups." Robert Sinclair of Robert G. Sinclair Architecture, Inc. (970-925-4269; rgsarchitecture. com) agrees: "A space doesn't have to be large to make the most of a view." He is designing homes that connect interiors and exteriors using pocketed or partitioned doors and windows. With the addition of deep eaves, this method can double entertaining space. His firm designed the stately West Buttermilk Ranch with view-enhancing terraces that include a covered dining area and an outdoor fireplace. These views make for an ideal backdrop for summer soirées. "People want nice lounging space but to be able to move furniture for parties," says Barbara Mullen, co-owner and principal designer of Caroline-Edwards, Inc. Interior Architecture & Design (970-920-3331; carolineedwards.com). Her go-to décor items are easy to move outdoor furniture in metal finishes; colorful throws and pillows in durable fabrics to offset the neutral surroundings; and large umbrellas on Patio space at wheels for daytime versatility. 360 Eagle Pines Additional outdoor amenities melds with the landscaping. include stainless-steel grills and Obermeyer Place penthouse. heating elements. Keeping stocked fridges or cabinets in outdoor dining areas is not advised (due to uninvited wildlife guests), but Roos says the most efficient spaces have easy access to the kitchen or pantry. For warmth, Sinclair suggests built-in radiant heaters, but fire pits are also popular. Mullen often works with landscape architect Greg Mozian to better integrate the design of these spaces with nature. "The color, texture, and size of the plantings and materials can tie an outdoor room into both the environment and the interior spaces," Mozian says. In Sotheby's listing at 360 Eagle Pines Drive, a spacious indoor entertaining area connects to a deck, which extends across the rear of the home and a patio with a fire pit and covered area. The space flows effortlessly into the surrounding lawn, the swimming pool, and a cascading water feature. AP PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF MICHAEL BRANDS (360 EAGLE PINES); RGS ARCHITECTURE, INC. (BUTTERMILK RANCH); JOE MCGUIRE DESIGN (OBERMEYER PLACE) see in, see out The best place for dinner this summer may be right outside your back door. Interior designer Joe McGuire (970948-7096; joemcguiredesign.com) says the current trend is about making entertaining spaces "easy and relaxing." In the Obermeyer Place penthouse, he began with white mesh seating from Henry Hall Designs, paired with a teak and stainless-steel table from Modernica. He then accented the décor with gray resin pieces from Frank Gehry and rectangular metal planters from Design Within Reach, which house artificial lawn that "provides a low-maintenance pop of color," he says. "It's a perfect spot to grill, dine, and enjoy Aspen's sunsets." ASPENPEAK-MAGAZINE.COM 160_AP_HP_Abode_SUM_Fall_13.indd 160 5/6/13 10:50 AM