The Original Structure
The Black Butte Ranch Lodge, a cornerstone of the 1,800-acre site, was built in the early 1970s. Its iconic period architecture has become a beloved landmark, cherished by many, including the Hacker design team. The lodge’s unique character was a driving factor in the decision to renovate the building, but a comprehensive analysis revealed significant issues, including accessibility concerns, aging mechanical systems, and an outdated layout. A new construction project was deemed the best option, allowing the team to create a structure that honors the original ranch buildings while elevating the experience of the surrounding landscape.
A Year-Long Outreach Process
The Hacker design team embarked on an extensive outreach process to understand the community’s vision and priorities for the new Lodge. This involved engaging with residents, gathering feedback, and analyzing the site’s natural environment. The team’s goal was to create a structure that not only meets the needs of the community but also complements the surrounding landscape. By listening to the community’s concerns and aspirations, the team was able to craft a design that not only honors the past but also looks toward the future.
Design Principles
The new Lodge is designed to incorporate the principles of regionalism, sustainability, and community engagement. The building’s design language is inspired by the original ranch buildings, with a focus on using local materials and traditional craftsmanship. The interior celebrates the ranch tradition of highlighting wood, using contrasting tones of native wood species to create a sense of warmth and openness.
- The interior features exposed structure and finishes, showcasing the beauty of native wood species.
- The restaurant booths appear to be carved away from the surrounding landscape, creating a seamless transition between indoors and outdoors.
- The stone fireplace serves as a focal point, stitching the nostalgia of the old lodge back into the new.
The New Structure
The new Lodge is a 27,000-square-foot building, divided into three main sections: public spaces, private areas, and a state-of-the-art kitchen. The design team worked closely with the contractor, Kirby Nagelhout, to ensure that the building was constructed using sustainable materials and techniques.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Shou Sugi Ban exterior wood siding | A traditional wood treatment that maintains the weathered look of the previous building while providing additional durability and connection to the wildfires inherent to the region. |
| Pine tree transformation | An established Pine tree on the site was transformed into custom tabletops for the restaurant and bar. |
| Native plants and drought-tolerant landscaping | The landscape design uses drought-tolerant native plants, encouraging habitat creation and celebrating the surrounding environment. |
Collaborative Team
The Hacker design team worked closely with a range of experts and partners to bring the project to life. The team included:
* Design Principal: Corey Martin
* Project Manager: Nick Hodges
* Project Architect: Scott Mannhard and Brendan Hart
* Architectural Design Team: John Dalit, Jake Freauff, Matthew Sugarbaker, Charles Dorn
* Interior Design Principal: Jennie Fowler
* Interior Designer: Mayumi Nakazato
* Contractor: Kirby Nagelhout
* Landscape: Walker Macy Landscape Architecture
* Kitchen Designer: Bargreen Ellingson Restaurant Supply and Design
* Civil Engineer: Harper Houf Peterson Righellis Inc. (HHPR)
* Structural Engineer: Madden & Baughman Engineering
* Mechanical & Plumbing Engineer: PAE Consulting Engineers
* Electrical Engineer: PAE Consulting Engineers
* Lighting: Luma Lighting Design
* Acoustical Engineer: Listen Acoustics
* Client: Black Butte Ranch
Materials and Brands
The new Lodge features a range of sustainable materials and brands, including:
* Windows: Sierra Pacific Timber Curtain Wall and Direct Glaze Plus
* Structural Steel: Max Manufacturing (fabrication)
* HVAC Equipment: VRV System
* Lighting: Daikin
* Wood cladding and flooring: Pioneer Millworks
* Fireplaces: Acucraft and Kleene Sweep
* Shou Sugi Ban charred Cedar exterior wood siding
* Custom designed tables and benches: Fabricated by Straight Edge Designs
* Interior wood siding, wood flooring, and wood ceiling: Pioneer Millworks
* Brazilian Black Slate flooring: Portland Direct Tile & Marble
* Feature stone fireplace: Cowboy Coffee ledgestone
* Feature tile at Bars: Tempest Tileworks
* Upholstery: Pendleton Woolen Mills
Conclusion
The rebirth of the Black Butte Ranch Lodge is a testament to the power of collaboration and commitment to sustainability. The new structure honors the original ranch buildings while elevating the experience of the surrounding landscape, creating a unique and inviting space that celebrates the beauty of the natural environment. The Hacker design team’s dedication to regionalism, sustainability, and community engagement has resulted in a building that not only meets the needs of the community but also complements the surrounding landscape, creating a lasting legacy for Black Butte Ranch.