Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, skiing surged in popularity, evolving into a globally beloved winter activity. As the sport gained traction, so did the concept of ski lodges—a style of home defined by proximity to alpine slopes. Historically, ski lodges have adhered to a particular aesthetic, shaped by wintery and mountainous terrain. Over the years, however, this style has evolved dramatically, with Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences Telluride marking emerging ski lodge design trends. Situated in the heart of Telluride—one of the country’s premier skiing destinations—this development is set to redefine the concept.
Traditional ski lodge design has long followed a consistent formula. Lodges typically feature earthy materials like wood and stone, evoking a sense of warmth and comfort. Their architecture often includes double-pitched roofs and small windows, prioritizing insulation and warmth. However, this conventional design often leads to limited natural lighting and restrictive layouts due to the material used.
Fortunately, advancements in glass technology and architects willing to push boundaries have ushered in a new era for ski lodges. Across the country, resorts are embracing more contemporary designs, incorporating features such as floor-to-ceiling windows to maximize the beauty of their surroundings. Four Seasons Telluride is among the projects leading this modern movement.
Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences Telluride is a forthcoming development from one of the most prestigious names in luxury hospitality. Located within the Mountain Village neighborhood of Telluride—renowned for its more than 2,000 acres of skiable terrain—it offers a true winter paradise.
Breaking from the traditional mold, Four Seasons Telluride enlisted the Olson Kundig team to design both the resort and residences. Known for their modern designs that harmonize with natural beauty, Olson Kundig brings its signature style to the Colorado mountains. The development will feature three interconnected towers with sleek glass facades, showcasing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Floor-to-ceiling windows and flat roofs provide a fresh, contemporary take on the classic ski lodge.
“Four Seasons Private Residences Telluride is a composition of differently scaled buildings carefully situated to optimize views through and from each home, while connecting to both natural slopes and trails, as well as the activity of the Telluride Mountain Village,” said Kirsten Ring Murray, FAIA, co-Design Principal at Olson Kundig. “The buildings are nestled into the mountainside and weave the natural ecosystem throughout the center of the property.”
This project marks Telluride’s first luxury development in over 15 years. It will offer 27 private residences, ranging from two to five bedrooms, alongside 42 hotel residences, ranging from one to five bedrooms, and 52 hotel keys. Residences will feature luxe fireplaces, private terraces, and in-home oxygenation systems to combat the high-altitude conditions.
In addition to its stunning design, Four Seasons Telluride will boast a range of world-class amenities, making it a dream winter retreat. With ski-in, ski-out access, hitting the slopes couldn’t be easier. The resort will also have a ski valet, on-demand car services, housekeeping, butler services, and underground parking. Residents will enjoy access to a state-of-the-art fitness center, outdoor hot tub, spa, and indoor lap pool.
While Four Seasons Telluride is set to play a key role in the evolution of ski lodge design, this trend toward modern lodges is taking hold at other resorts nationwide.
Sommet Blanc in Deer Valley, Utah, is a striking new development designed by Tom Kundig of Olson Kundig. Located in the renowned Deer Valley Ski Resort, this ski-in, ski-out property has a stylish modern design with floor-to-ceiling windows, butterfly rooflines, and cantilevered structures. Similarly, in Snowmass, Stratos Residences—a new condo project in Colorado designed by Davis Partnership Architects—is set to debut this winter, blending contemporary design elements with traditional lodge aesthetics.
The classic ski lodge style is widely recognized, but it is evolving. With advancements in technology enabling homes to maintain insulation and warmth in alpine settings without sacrificing expansive views, many resorts are leaning toward a more contemporary approach. Four Seasons Telluride, with its Olson Kundig-designed residences, stands as a prime example of this shift—redefining what a ski lodge can be.
