OWL MOUNTAIN RANCH was fun to build. Carole and I had enjoyed visiting friends on the New England Coast, in the Adirondack Mountains, at estates in Newport and at Rocky Mountain ranches. The architecture and engineering of these turn-of-the-century country mansions possesses a fascinating combination of modern aesthetics and traditional comfort.

Our challenge was to create a residential property that combined our dream home with the recreational activities and personal comforts in a year round setting. The mountains surrounding Aspen presented the perfect place to combine outdoor activity and adventure ... if a uniquely private and beautiful property could be found.

The final engineering of roads, water, electrical and gas service as well as modern communications was a little simpler than building the Trans Continental Railroad. The family wanted modern comforts, but without inconvenience and awkward linkage to the surrounding amenities. The result of this effort was a large home with more than 17,000 usable sq. ft. and 4,600 sq. ft. of "year-round" terraces. Combined with the Activity Barn and Cottage the result is over 32,000 sq. ft. of functional spaces.

This painstakingly-designed home includes both classic and modern elements: large windows set into elaborately designed wood paneling; generous public spaces with high ceilings next to a cozy pub and warm library and luxurious outdoor spaces. The dining room accommodates up to fifty people; it can also be made comfortable for six. The kitchen is always a family gathering area and includes bar seating, a lovely breakfast nook and an open living room.

This comfortable residence is in the middle of its own trail system with hiking and skiing both to and from the surrounding Buttermilk slopes and Maroon Bells wilderness. Whether it's strolling with our dogs, or our best friends, every bend in the road brings a different beautiful vista, abundant wild flowers and the sounds and smells of the surrounding forest.

Our family seems to accumulate friends in Aspen, who often join us for early aprs ski supper on a winter evening or an afternoon of grilling out on the terrace overlooking thousands of neighboring wilderness acres. The property shines when filled with friends, old and new. With its game room, theater, and surprising spaces, Owl Mountain encourages quiet conversation or playfulness among friends of all ages.

A property of this magnitude requires some leadership attention by its owners and works best with a Manager who can be housed in the adjacent "guest cottage." There is a 7,500 square foot "barn" with equipment storage and mechanical work spaces. The barn blends activity areas and modern spaces such as the art studio, gym and employee lounge area. The Aspen Ski Co. plows the main road in the ski season and there is controlled gate access for privacy during the balance of the year.