When you think of skiing, or a vacation in the mountains, you imagine a gorgeous blue sky and slopes blanketed with fresh powder. But most importantly, you think about that special time spent inside after a day of hitting the slopes, as that’s the time when friendships are celebrated, family bonds are strengthened and memories are made. Gathering together, thawing out by the fire and enjoying the company of friends and family in a snug ski lodge might just be the best part of the adventure.

Ski lodges essentially define the term “coziness” and “togetherness.” They are beautiful resorts with high ceilings and a central roaring fireplace surrounded by seasoned, hand-cut timbers. That’s why when people think of ski lodges, they imagine the architecture of a timber frame building system. Let’s take a look at three of the best features a timber frame ski lodge has to offer.

Size and Comfort – More Than Just Ski Boots

The very best ski lodge homes reinforce the wide-open spaces of the great outdoors. High rafters add a natural aesthetic, reflecting the majesty of the ski slopes. But in contrast to the harsh realities of the winter landscape, the rooms should be inviting and comfortable – either for a cozy couple or an entire entourage.  The warm, natural finish of the timbers and the main room’s roaring central fireplace help relax everybody. This is the gathering place to celebrate the day’s triumphs while enjoying a warm cup of hot chocolate or a velvety glass of wine.

It’s a Beautiful Thing – Fitting in with natural surroundings

Part of a ski lodge style home’s appeal comes from the natural appearance of the exposed timber frame. The natural whorls, knots, and color of their original wood species give the lodge a rustic, classic character.   But it’s more than just looking good. Exhausted skiers and snow boarders notice a rich, earthy scent from the exposed timber frame of a ski lodge. Woods like pine and oak give off this relaxing scent after they are cut, which naturally refreshes the building over time. That’s what makes it special. And that’s what brings the fresh air of the outdoors into a ski lodge all year around.

Classic Appeal – A time-tested building system

Timber frames have been used for hundreds of years to create beautiful buildings. They can balance a classic, majestic look with a panache that feels fresh and new.  Ski lodges were built in a traditional way to take advantage of local resources and offer a sense of luxury to guests. With their elevated timber frames and expansive views, these lodges soon became a staple of mountain vacations. Just as important as fresh powder and crisp sunshine, skiers, snowboarders, and other adventurers look forward to relaxing in front of a crackling fire under the exposed timber rafters of a ski lodge.

Ski lodge homes combine the luxury of staying in a classic resort with a comfortable ease of gathering with friends and family nestled on a mountainside. Everyone within looks forward to reflecting on the day’s thrills and reenergizing for tomorrow’s adventures.

Woodhouse offers a variety of timber frame plans that can be customized based on your design needs. Use our Budget Calculator to learn how much the ski lodge you’ve always wanted would cost.