Jackson Hole, Wyoming, has long been a siren call for those seeking a rugged escape from the frantic pace of modern life. But as any seasoned traveller knows, the architecture of Teton Village can occasionally veer into the realm of “mountain kitsch.”
Thankfully, the team at CLB Architects has provided a masterclass in how to build for the mountains without falling into the trap of excess. Their latest project, Caju House, is a testament to the power of restraint, proving that when you have a site this spectacular, the architecture should be a frame, not a distraction.
Designed for a young family trading the humidity of Miami for the crisp air of the Snake River Valley, Caju House was born from a desire for a “serene retreat.” The owners managed to snag one of the last underdeveloped lots in Teton Village—a site characterized by its dramatic topography and immersive views.
To do justice to the land, they tapped local legends CLB Architects, a firm that practically speaks the language of the Wyoming landscape. The result is a 3,250-square-foot dwelling that prioritizes essentials over excess, blending earthy warmth with a sharp, industrial edge.
The house takes its name from a bit of linguistic flair; “Caju” is the Portuguese word for cashew, a Brazilian fruit with a distinctive orange shell. This is a direct nod to the home’s most striking feature: its cladding of Corten steel.
Much like the shell of a cashew, the weathering steel develops a rich, oxidized patina over time, echoing the rugged textures of the surrounding mountains and the sunset hues of the valley. It’s a bold material choice that feels entirely at home in a climate known for its unforgiving winters and baking summers.
Structurally, the house is composed of two intersecting bars that form a tactical L-shape. The longer bar, capped with a traditional gabled roof, houses the main two-level living quarters. In contrast, the shorter bar features a modern flat roof and extends out toward the hillside.
To minimize the home’s footprint and respect the natural slope of the site, CLB Architects used a series of columns to support this shorter wing, allowing the structure to “touch down lightly” on the earth. It’s a clever bit of massing that makes the house feel like it’s floating above the rugged terrain rather than bulldozing through it.
Step inside, and the industrial grit of the Corten exterior gives way to a “holistic interior environment” defined by larch wood. CLB used the same larch found on the exterior to clad the interior walls and ceilings, creating a seamless transition from the wild outdoors to the cozy sanctuary within.
The wood wasn’t just slapped on the walls, either; it was used to create beautiful built-in furniture that maximizes space and reinforces the home’s minimalist philosophy.
The layout is refreshingly logical. The ground floor is a utilitarian hub, containing the garage, mudroom, laundry, and a gym—everything the active family needs for a day on the slopes. Upstairs is where the magic happens.
By elevating the communal spaces, the architects have ensured that the best views of the Snake River Valley are enjoyed from the kitchen, dining, and living areas. The floors are connected by a stunning staircase encased in a perforated stainless steel structure, which acts as a light well, filtering sunshine through the home like a metallic lantern.
Perhaps the most “Coolector-approved” detail is found on the rear deck. Made of metal grating to allow snow to fall through, the deck features a deliberate cutout for a pair of aspen trees.
Rather than clearing the site, the architects allowed the trees to grow directly up through the architecture, literally rooting the house in its environment. It’s this kind of thoughtful, nature-first design that makes Caju House a standout. It’s a home that doesn’t just sit on the mountain; it belongs to it.
