Ingenuity and creative design make this mountain refuge, perched atop a steep lot with breathtaking panoramic views, a wonder of modern construction and architecture. The design group took the challenge to create a cliff-side retreat on an unconventional lot, combining privacy and the comforts of home with the openness of the sweeping landscape below.

The exterior of the home itself features a rare and distinctive Shou Sugi Ban finish, a Japanese antiquing technique created by charring wood to preserve and bring out texture. An upper-level bridge doubles as a port-au-cochere, leading to the motor court, and on to a secluded courtyard with a cascading water feature and direct views through the home’s expansive windows to Mount Timpanogos.

Inside, two floating staircases, including one set against a 22-foot glass curtain wall, create open space inside the home and keep the outdoor views unobstructed, while an upper level “sky deck” gives you the experience of being on top of it all. The floating interior kitchen, open on all sides to the surrounding great room, boasts a beautiful live-edge walnut island. Built with a cantilevered floor, the master retreat truly floats above the landscape, revealing zen-like views of Mount Timpanogos and Guardsman’s Pass through corner glass windows. Other interesting features of the home include two large upper level suites with access to the “sky deck,” and a hidden game room just off the lower level theater.