Hacker Architects Create Oregon Lodge Inspired by Volcanic Landscape

In a remarkable fusion of modern design and regional heritage, Portland-based studio Hacker Architects has unveiled a stunning transformation of Black Butte Ranch in Sisters, Oregon.

The project involved replacing an outdated lodge with a contemporary structure that harmonizes with the volcanic landscape. This redevelopment is a testament to the studio’s innovative approach, which integrates elements of the natural environment to create a cohesive and immersive experience for visitors and residents alike.

Black Butte Ranch: A Modern Architectural Marvel

Black Butte Ranch, originally planned and constructed in the early 1970s, spans an impressive 1,800-acre parcel of land at the base of The Three Sisters peaks in Oregon’s Central Cascade mountains.

The ranch, a beloved destination for year-round residents and vacationers, embarked on a comprehensive redevelopment plan in 2013. This plan included the creation of a recreation and dining complex completed in 2016 and a general store finished in 2021, both designed by Hacker Architects.

The Vision Behind the New Lodge

The original lodge, designed by Portland architect Bing Sheldon in 1969 with landscape design by Doug Macy, had become outdated. Accessibility issues, aging mechanical systems, and an impractical layout necessitated its replacement.

Hacker Architects, driven by a year-long community outreach process, sought to evoke memories of the original lodge while enhancing connections to the surrounding landscape. The result is a structure that honors the past while embracing modern design principles.

Design Philosophy: Landform Building Approach

Hacker Architects applied their signature Landform Building approach, which emphasizes the subordination of the structure to the landscape.

This design philosophy draws inspiration from regional agricultural buildings, seamlessly connecting the architecture to its environment. The studio aimed to honor and evolve the design language of the original ranch buildings, elevating the experience of the landscape through careful framing and layering of views.

Volcanic Landscape Inspiration

The high-elevation desert climate of Central Oregon, characterized by columnar basalt, underground lava tubes, and thunderegg formations, significantly influenced the design of the new lodge.

The form and pitch of the roof mirror the slope of nearby Black Butte, while clerestory windows allow natural light to flood the interior. Oblique walls create dynamic profiles both inside and outside the lodge, enhancing the visual connection to the volcanic landscape.

Material Choices: A Blend of Tradition and Innovation

The exterior of the lodge is clad in cedar charred in the traditional Japanese fashion, a technique that not only preserves the weathered look of the original lodge but also increases durability and references the region’s wildfires.

Natural-toned wood soffits contrast the dark exterior, and floor-to-ceiling glazing maximizes sunlight exposure. The building, now twice the size of the original lodge, is divided into three distinct public sections.

Interior Design: Celebrating Wood and Warmth

Inside, a double-height stone fireplace serves as the focal point for the bar and restaurant areas. Booths are carved out of the wall like lava-formed pools, and tables are crafted from a large ponderosa pine tree sourced from the site.

The southeastern portion of the lodge houses a versatile event area that can be partitioned and leads to an outdoor terrace. Upstairs, a lounge, bar, and terrace space offer views of the ground floor, creating a sense of openness and connection.

Sustainable Practices and Community Engagement

Hacker Architects incorporated wood salvaged from the original lodge into guard rails, screens, furniture, and wall finishes. This approach not only pays homage to the ranch’s tradition of highlighting wood but also promotes sustainability.

The design team, led by Corey Martin, emphasized the use of contrasting wood tones to enhance the sense of warmth and openness within the space.

Special Touches and Artistic Elements

As a special touch, the entry doors were CNC-ed to depict lava flowing from below the mountains and other scenes from the landscape, adding a unique artistic element to the lodge. This attention to detail reflects the studio’s commitment to creating a space that resonates with the natural beauty of its surroundings.

Collaborative Efforts and Expert Contributions

The successful completion of the Black Butte Ranch redevelopment was a collaborative effort involving various experts and professionals. The project credits include:

• Architecture and Interior Design: Hacker Architects
• Hacker Design Team: Corey Martin, Nick Hodges, Scott Mannhard, Brendan Hart, John Dalit, Jake Freauff, Matthew Sugarbaker, Charles Dorn, Jennie Fowler, Mayumi Nakazato
• Contractor: Kirby Nagelhout
• Landscape: Walker Macy Landscape Architecture
• Kitchen Designer: Bargreen Ellingson Restaurant Supply and Design
• Civil Engineer: Harper Houf Peterson Righellis Inc. (HHPR)
• Structural Engineer: Madden & Baughman Engineering
• Mechanical & Plumbing Engineer: PAE Consulting Engineers
• Electrical Engineer: PAE Consulting Engineers
• Lighting: Luma Lighting Design
• Acoustical Engineer: Listen Acoustics
• Client: Black Butte Ranch

Conclusion: A Triumph of Modern Design and Heritage

The new lodge at Black Butte Ranch stands as a testament to the power of modern design to honor and elevate regional heritage.

Hacker Architects have successfully created a space that respects the original design and enhances the connection between architecture and the natural environment.

This project serves as an inspiring example of how thoughtful design can create meaningful and immersive experiences for all who visit.

For more details on this remarkable transformation, visit Dezeen’s article on Hacker Architects’ Black Butte Ranch project.