Downstream Dreaming

Downstream Dreaming

Designed for a fly-fishing devotee client who prized the sight and sound of water over the land’s Madison Range views, this Montana retreat had JLF and Dovetail Construction flipping the script on the usual mountain-focused approach. Sited atop a bench of land overlooking a meandering curve in the 40-acre Madison Valley property’s spring-fed stream, the mini-compound comprises an intentionally modest-footprint 2,600-square-foot main house; separate 100-square-foot yoga/workout studio perched above the creek; and a rustic fishing cabin with guest quarters. A bend in the architectural layout captures sparkling downstream views from both the open floor plan public space and the primary bedroom suite while also allowing for windows framing Red Mountain. Specialty features include handy rod holders, wader hooks and out-the-door fishing access, as well as a special-request reading nook for the couple’s daughter. And rather than a water feature running below JLF’s signature dining room “bridge” that fully opens to the outdoors on either side, a landlocked twist on the concept is flanked by the ripples and burble of the adjacent stream to one side and a covered mountain-facing outdoor patio space for entertaining on the other.