Featuring 2 7/8-inch ship-lap hand-hewn siding from PrecisionCraft Log and Timber Homes, and a channel roof to allow snow to slide easily off and into non-high traffic areas, the home was modified to fit the narrow one-third acre lot purchased by Jay Prigge and his business partner, Gary ″Zip″ Zipfel.
Three families. One getaway. Such was the predicament Jay Prigge faced in creating a design for the spec home in Mammoth Lakes, California, to be shared with his business partners, Gary "Zip" Zipfel and Declan Caulfield, and their respective kin. The result: A 5,400-square-foot home boasting three master suites, two bunk rooms and plenty of entertainment space for all to enjoy. "It's a multi-generational retreat, so to speak," says Jay. "It suits everyone." As one of the partners in Strongbow Construction, Jay was elected to design and construct the custom home. Previously a log-home builder, he opted for timber-frame construction to simplify the maintenance of the home while still allowing it to live large. He worked with architect Matt Franklin at Mountain Architects/Precision Craft Log and Timber Homes to create a design that would fit the tricky site he had purchased with Zip and create a comfortable environment.
The key to such a plan is flexibility. "You're going to want to have lots of different sorts of spaces," the architect explains, "to accommodate different tasks and recreation at the same time so multiple families can use and really enjoy the space." One shining example is the play room, deliberately located above the garage to let night owls play without disrupting those who prefer an earlier bedtime.
An expansive Loewen Windows wall system opens the breakfast nook, with its ceiling appearing to be suspended in midair, to the home's main porch. Because of the high winds in Mammoth Lakes, California -- reaching up to 90 to 120 mph -- outdoor spaces such as decks and porches were limited to protect the home. A flat-screen TV and Miehle coffee maker built into the wall make the space even more enjoyable.
Also important was striking a balance between the three master suites, each providing something of interest without favoring one space over the others. Although the upper-level master suite has access to a private balcony, the main-level master suites enjoy amenities such as a dual-sided fireplace and easier access to the hot tub and sauna. In addition to the three partners, the home is also open for friends to use. "There's plenty of room," Jay states. "Our friends love it."
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