The Ski Pad
New Build, Blue Mountain Custom Chalet
Completion Fall 2025
Landscaping completion Summer 2026
This custom chalet in The Blue Mountains balances architectural ambition with precise execution. Inspired by traditional Austrian alpine forms and refined through a modern lens, we delivered a highly detailed contemporary chalet that realizes both the homeowners’ vision and the designer’s intent.
At the outset, the homeowners envisioned a gathering place inspired by the sophistication of the Mad Men era. At the same time, they wanted the performance and comfort of a modern mountain home. Our role was to translate that vision into a buildable, durable structure capable of withstanding a demanding four-season climate while staying connected to the surrounding landscape. (continued below gallery)
The home follows an upside-down house concept, with the primary living spaces in the treetops1. Executing this layout required careful coordination of structure, mechanical systems, and glazing to ensure comfort, privacy, and long-term performance. The ground level houses bedroom suites, laundry, and mudroom—spaces designed and constructed to handle winter use with durability and efficiency.
Above, the great room, kitchen, dining area, and games room form the social core of the home, built to support both daily living and large gatherings. A dramatic vaulted ceiling defines the upper level and serves as a key structural element. It spans between front and rear terraces providing expansive views. Meanwhile, floor-to-ceiling glazing on the east and west demanded precise detailing to balance daylight, energy performance, and weather resistance.
Material selection and execution were critical to the success of the project. The lower level is wrapped in board-formed concrete, requiring careful formwork and sequencing to achieve a consistent wood-grain texture while delivering strength and thermal mass. Above, a black metal-clad volume demanded tight tolerances and clean detailing to maintain the 1sharp architectural lines. Inside, large-format concrete tile and concrete walls transition to warm wood flooring and custom millwork. A vertical wood-slat screen and exposed steel beam express both structure and craftsmanship. Notably, the concrete fireplace proportions match those of the original family chalet once on the site, grounding the new build in memory and continuity.
Later additions, including a screened porch and sauna, were seamlessly integrated. These spaces required thoughtful coordination to maintain design continuity while enhancing the home’s functionality.
The completed chalet reflects a shared commitment between builder, designers, and homeowner to quality, restraint, and longevity. Built with disciplined detailing and honest materials, this Blue Mountain home delivers strength, comfort, and performance—while preserving the architectural integrity that defines it.
Key Project Partners
Build: Blake Farrow Project Management
Architect: ERA
Structural Engineer: Jaime Barill, Barill Engineering Ltd.
Interior Design: ERA and F.A.D (Farrow Arcaro Design)
Renderings: ERA
Photographed by: Heather Goldsworthy