Vernacular Architecture Inspires Modern Homes in Park City, UT
Different architectural movements have defined building styles throughout the ages. One of our favorites is modernism, a movement that began in earnest in the 1930s. Fast forward more than 90 years and we are seeing a new trend here in Utah: a return to vernacular architecture: inspiring new, modern houses throughout Park City.
Those that live outside Utah mostly know this part of the state as home to multiple renowned ski resorts. They are familiar with the fact that nearby Sundance attracts the rich and famous for both skiing and the annual film festival, but they don't know a lot about our architectural history.
Knowledge of local history is important because vernacular architecture is so wrapped up in it. As it inspires architecture in Park City, Utah's rich history is being revisited in the homes people build here.
VERNACULAR ARCHITECTURE EXPLAINED
The beauty of vernacular architecture is that it isn't necessarily inspired or defined by a particular movement. Its defining characteristic is the fact that, historically, vernacular homes were built without the services of an architect. Builders drew from their own knowledge and whatever local resources they had available to construct simple, modest homes.
It has been suggested that the majority of older homes in Utah, and across the country for that matter, are vernacular homes. Though never proven, the assumption sounds reasonable. These days, we are attempting to re-create vernacular architecture in look and feel even while involving architects in new home design.
RELIGIOUS + SECULAR LANDSCAPES
By definition, vernacular architecture is different from one region to the next. Here in Utah, things are divided into two geographic categories: religious and secular landscapes. The former revolves around the great Salt Lake Valley and Jordan River areas. The latter are found in the northern areas of the state. Here in Park City, our region is considered part of the secular landscape.
Our local history is heavily rooted in pre-industrial uses of the Wasatch Mountains. Before the mountains hosted entire resort communities, this area was populated with hunters, trappers and miners, which were all big industries then. As such, the vernacular architecture of a hundred years ago was essentially a combination of ski lodges and hunting cabins.
Park City architects that tap into that history design modern homes inspired by yesterday's vernacular styles. We are designing homes that capture the essence of what it meant to live in Utah, before Sundance became a destination of the rich and famous. These are homes that, while they might feature modern amenities and state-of-the-art construction, still offer the feel of relaxed modesty.
THE BEST OF OLD + NEW
One of the things we most appreciate about vernacular architecture is its perfect suitability to passive design. Our architects specialize in passive design, which is the practice of designing homes in such a way as to limit dependence on mechanical heating and air conditioning.
Passive design was a way of life before we had forced air heating and AC. In a place like Northern Utah, where access to dependable power would have been limited a hundred years ago, you had to build your home to take advantage of passive heating and cooling.
Designing custom homes for Park City residents is truly satisfying, and we love what we do. And now, designing local homes is even more enjoyable thanks to the resurgence of vernacular architecture. Through it, we are given the opportunity to revisit some of Utah's rich history in our new designs.