Mountain retreat with main house, guesthouse, equestrian center

When the clients decided to build a Pennsylvania-style barn in the mountains of Utah, all referrals directed them to Breyer Studio, known for several critically acclaimed barn renovations and reconstructions.

For the project Breyer repurposed the materials from 10 historic barns that had previously been disassembled, and were then shipped to Utah. He designed all the architectural detailing for the main house exterior and interior; provided full architectural services for the guest house and equestrian barn; and custom designed and fabricated all interior decorations including the entire lighting plan with one-of-a-kind fixtures, rugs, and numerous antiques that were refitted into cabinetry, wet bars, etc.

The huge entry way presented an opportunity to showcase the significant custom work that is integral to the entire complex. A monumental rug tells the story of the house, the clients, the property and things common to Utah—Aspen trees, bulls, horses, cows, fowl, pine trees and mountains. This contemporary heirloom references period hooked rugs and samplers. An understated 12-foot chandelier blends with the materials around it, allowing guests to discover the fanciful elements from actual farm life that were assembled to make the finished piece—a child’s rusted tractor at the center, shovels, pitch forks and tools.

Once completed, this spacious mountain retreat reflected the late 19th-early 20th century Americana vernacular that so engaged the clients at the onset, while providing all the amenities of 21st century living.