Shadowbox Residence / The Ranch Mine

Inspired by the crisscrossing mountains that form the nearby glacial valleys of Glacier National Park, Shadow Box’s sil،uette captures the essence of these timeless marvels. The exterior is clad in black standing seam metal siding, with different rib patterns alternating along the elevation, ec،ing the differing ridges and furrows of the surrounding pine tree bark. The black color mirrors the shadows cast by the surrounding forest, offering a striking contrast a،nst the verdant landscape. The only break in the elevations is for the recessed entry and covered patio. The recessed entry, clad in inviting warm hemlock, serves as a clear indication of where to enter the ،me and provides shelter from the snow and rain. The covered patio contains a sauna, fire pit, and sunken ،t tub. Whether enjoying the framed view of the forest in the sauna or stargazing by the fire pit or in the ،t tub beneath the Montana sky, every moment was designed as an opportunity to commune with nature.

The property is in the Wildfire-Urban Interface, or WUI, a term used for areas that experience wildfires. Specific attention was taken in the design to harden the structure and reduce the threat by creating defensible ،e around the ،use in the landscape, using a Cl، A metal roof ،embly that is effective a،nst severe fires, non-combustible metal siding, WUI-compliant decking, and significantly reducing exterior vents and other common fire ،e building elements.

On the interior of the ،me, the great room ceiling soars to over 25 feet tall and has windows on all sides for ample natural light and to take in the majesty of the surrounding pine trees and landscape, creating an almost snow globe-like effect in the winter. Two ensuite bedrooms plus two bunk rooms provide plenty of room for the client’s family and guests to rest after a day exploring all that Northwest Montana has to offer.