A ski chalet less ordinary
A mid-century design gem awaits in one of Colorado’s top adventure towns, with every comfort you could dream of
A mid-century design gem awaits in one of Colorado’s top adventure towns, with every comfort you could dream of
A mid-century design gem awaits in one of Colorado’s top adventure towns, with every comfort you could dream of
A mid-century design gem awaits in one of Colorado’s top adventure towns, with every comfort you could dream of
Flanked by trees and surrounded by the dramatic landscape of the Rocky Mountains, in one of Colorado’s most popular ski resorts, sits an architectural gem. “There’s just nothing else like it,” says owner Dave Repka of this one-of-a-kind property. At the rear, a deck seems to balance over a river; from the front, you’d be forgiven for thinking you were entering a museum. In fact, says Repka, “because of the artwork we’ve placed in there, people have confused it for an art gallery.”
Modern Riverfront Luxury Chalet
It’s one of the most popular vacation rentals in Winter Park, a ski resort 90 minutes’ drive from Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport. Ski junkies come for the slopes, but stay for the house’s panoramic views and mid-century style. It was designed almost two decades ago by Michael P. Johnson, a student of the architecture of the legendary Frank Lloyd Wright, and is referenced in numerous books.
Repka acquired the house seven years ago (he manages more than 200 properties around the resort), and occasionally enjoys a weekend here himself. But mostly, it is booked out by families and groups of friends coming together for year-round outdoor pursuits—and, as he tells us here, making memories in a space far removed from their everyday lives.
What gives this house the wow factor?
“Guests love it for its clean lines and unique design. And the setting is really special, too: It’s nestled within trees and sits by a small creek—you can see right down to the water through the metal grate out on the upper deck. You feel very connected to nature here. One weekend, I turned on the bedroom light and could see a bear through the windows, looking at me—it was surreal!”
The property sleeps 10—where does everyone hang out together?
“What’s nice is that there are various seating areas, so families can come together without feeling on top of one another. There’s a pair of large sectionals on the top floor looking out to the mountains, which open onto a patio with a grill; and there are two TV areas across the main and lower floors. Kids love the games area, which has a foosball table. And then there’s the covered firepit area outside, which has a giant outdoor sofa.”
What’s everyone’s favorite design feature?
“The suspended fireplace gets a lot of love. It’s a wood-burning stove from France that rotates 360 degrees, so you can angle it to the kitchen if you’re in there cooking, or turn it to warm up on the sofas. The design is modern and thoughtful throughout: The fact that there are no handrails in the stairwells—just cables to hold on to—is another unusual detail that guests appreciate.”
Story continues below
What is there to do if you’re not skiing or snowboarding?
“Outside is a hot tub, and we can help in organizing a mobile massage service, or a private chef for hosting a special dinner. In summer, people enjoy white-water rafting and horseback riding. Rocky Mountain National Park is half an hour away, so people use the house as a base camp for exploring.”
What has been your experience as a host on Vrbo?
“The platform has proved such a great partner for us; we see it reflected in the quality of the guests who come to stay. The customer support certainly sets it apart from other travel sites: I know that I can pick up the phone and get hold of somebody who is local and helpful—we just don’t get that same level of service with anyone else.”
“Skiing is such a sociable sport”
What renters say
“Everything about the place was spectacular. We loved having the outdoor lounge area next to the hot tub, where you can relax and enjoy the sounds of the river or unwind with a cocktail and prop your feet up next to the firepit. All the bedrooms are gorgeous, with separation between the areas providing privacy for everyone. We are definitely planning a return visit.”
Jane
“We travel a lot and have rented several homes over the years, and this one was by far the most amazing and unique home we have ever stayed in. We absolutely loved the modern design and the views over the river are beautiful! Can’t wait to return.”
Amanda
“This place was unbelievable. Gorgeous house with million-dollar views. Would love to book another stay.”
Robert
Olivia Lidbury is an interiors and lifestyle writer who has worked for titles including Domino, The Sunday Times and The Telegraph. She has visited at least 29 countries.
