WIldlife- Friendly Design For Mountain West Homes
The Mountain West boasts breathtaking landscapes and an abundance of wildlife. But sharing your backyard with creatures great and small requires a thoughtful approach. At A43 Architecture, we believe in creating homes that coexist peacefully with nature. Here are some of our go-to tricks for considering wildlife when designing in the mountains:
Homes that Blend in, Not Stand Out: While a modern glass cabin might be your dream (it actually sounds really awesome and we absolutely would be up for that challenge), it could potentially disrupt the natural aesthetic. We prefer to utilize natural materials like wood and stone that complement the surrounding environment and therefore become complimentary to the surroundings, rather than contradictory. Earth-toned colors further camouflage homes within the landscape.
Light the Way, Not the Night: Nighttime lights can disorient nocturnal animals. We encourage warm-colored, downward-facing fixtures to illuminate walkways and patios without disrupting wildlife behavior. We are well-versed in dark sky compliant lighting and can help you select the appropriate fixtures to provide adequate lighting while not negatively impacting your natural environment.
Windows with a View (That Reduce Bird Collisions) Large windows are a necessity for homes in the Mountain West, but they can pose a threat to birds. UV-reflective films or patterned decals on the exterior can make the glass more visible.
A Natural Feast, Not a Free Buffet: We all love a hummingbird flitting by the window, but readily available food sources can attract unwanted visitors like raccoons and bears. We encourage native, low-maintenance plants that provide sustenance for birds and pollinators, but avoid fruit trees and feeders that might attract larger animals.
Coexistence Through Corridors: When designing a mountain property, we try to leave corridors of natural vegetation untouched. This allows animals to move freely between habitats without encountering obstacles.
Water Features with a Purpose: A trickling fountain can be a lovely addition to your patio, but standing water is prime mosquito breeding habitat. Self-contained designs that minimize standing water, or a natural pond with native plants, can help control mosquito populations.
By incorporating wildlife-friendly features into your home design, you can create a property that's not just beautiful for you, but also welcoming to the creatures that share your mountain paradise. Remember, a little planning goes a long way in fostering a harmonious relationship with the natural world.
Want to learn more? Contact A43 Architecture at (307) 249-8650 for a consultation on designing your dream mountain home. Together, let's create a space that celebrates the beauty of the Mountain West, for you and the native creatures.