A Custom, Contemporary Build in Missoula’s Iconic Rattlesnake Neighborhood
Easy access to city open space via Waterworks Hill and Mount Jumbo.
A 5-minute bike ride to a 60,000-acre National Recreation Area and Wilderness.
A beautiful and clear trout-filled creek winding through its heart.
It’s easy to understand why “The Rattlesnake” (nicknamed The ‘Snake) is one of the most popular neighborhoods in Missoula.
We were thrilled to recently complete a new, custom home in the Rattlesnake. Set in the foothills of Mount Jumbo, the new home is in a prime location with expansive views. The bulk of the construction took place during the pandemic -– and while this presented its share of challenges, we were fortunate to work alongside owners who cared deeply about the place and its natural assets.
Here are the highlights from this special custom project:
Contemporary and Clean
The simplicity, squared-off details, and minimal trim on this custom home reflect a contemporary aesthetic. However, practicality also came into play in our design choices: for example, we selected a siding for its form, function, and durability.
Yes, the owners wanted modern lines––but they were also building a forever home that would allow them to age in place. This desired lifestyle drove our layout decisions. In particular, the first floor is zero entry (meaning no steps are needed). The second floor bedrooms have amazing views, and include a suite-style bedroom and private bath for the later years if necessary.
Maximizing the Natural Beauty that Surrounds Them
One of our owners is an avid gardener. We designed the home to have her giant garden as a focal point, one that uses recaptured rainwater. For him, he has a fantastic shop with its own separate heating system set adjacent to the garage.
But the decks might just be what we love most about this home. We built two fabulous decks that are positioned so that the owners can sit back and enjoy their coffee while looking northward at the peaks of the Rattlesnake Wilderness. Meanwhile, a third deck faces Mount Jumbo––a perfect location for a spotting scope to catch a glimpse of the wintering elk herd.
We brought the outdoors in via placement of massive, floor-to-ceiling windows in the living and dining rooms which face the Rattlesnake Wilderness. These include double sliding doors to the decks. The main bedrooms on the second floor each have corner windows to maximize the view as well.
Finally - the most unique detail might be the see-through fireplace shared by the living room and kitchen. In all – the house boasts over 25' of views in the Rattlesnake!
When Stress Appears, Relationships Matter Most
The Dickinson custom build was a pandemic project, and we rode the ups and downs of supply chain issues for nearly the entire build. We had to be relentless about procuring materials and keep our nose to the grindstone. The owners are delightful people, and it was this collaboration that got us across the finish line.
Taking advantage of the natural beauty in the Rattlesnake neighborhood