That was the case in this Telluride, Colorado, home, purchased by a Houston couple as an idyllic mountain getaway. “The problem was, with the original window configuration, you couldn’t see the mountaintops or the clouds,” says Ken Newberry, the Houston architect brought in to reimagine the home. “I told the clients, ‘You have God’s masterpiece out there. Let’s frame it correctly.’” Out went the existing standard windows—and nearly the entire back wall of the house. In came a giant run of structural black steel-frame windows that rise from floor to ceiling to usher in views of the snow-capped San Juan Mountains. “It’s an amazing transformation,” Newberry says. “We stayed true to the mountain cabin feel, but now it’s more open and fresh. It’s like we brought the outdoors right up to the dining table.” Savoring meals is a joy in the renovated space and so is creating them. Newberry and designer Kara Childress, another Houstonian, updated both the form and function of the cooking space. Working within the original footprint, the design team refaced cabinets for a more clean-lined, classic feel and improved organization with new dividers that neatly corral spices, utensils, pots, and pans. Sleek faucets, new sinks, and grab-and-go beverage drawers also elevate the kitchen’s utility. Lee Industries barstools in handsome wood and leather pull up to an island large enough to accommodate prep work and seating. Dated tile behind the original range and vent hood made way for an expansive new backsplash-and-hood combo using distressed zinc. Its rugged good looks create a memorable indoor focal point. A built-in rack keeps spices handy next to the range. Childress created a coffee bar near the prep sink: Shelves hold cups while the cabinet above cloaks a coffeemaker. A speed oven tucks under the island countertop. Airy light fixtures over the island and dining table repeat the black of the window frames, as does the workhorse range. Finishes and fabrics in natural tones harmonize with nature. Childress outfitted dining chairs with high-performance linen slipcovers that shrug off stains and spills. Fresh evergreen garland, flickering candles, and copper accents set a cozy mood that warms up a winter day. “It feels softer, more welcoming,” Childress says. “That was really what we wanted to give this couple. Everything they do revolves around their entertaining. It’s such as joy that they now can share this with their extended family and friends. Just being in this space takes your breath away.”
