The Stellar Residences and Townhomes at Mountainside Northstar challenge the concept of the traditional mountain chalet. Familiar materials—warm wood, glass, and exposed structure—are reorganized to provide a contemporary dwelling that makes a strong connection to the surrounding environment while also paying homage to the Lake Tahoe vernacular.

"The nice building forms fits into the forest and uses a lot of glass to open itself to the site"—Jury comment

Located in a dense forest of Jeffery pine and Douglas fir, occupants are drawn into an elevated world with remarkable views of the Martis Valley and Carson Range beyond. Large expanses of glass offer a visual and physical connection to the outdoors, bathing communal areas in soft northern light throughout the day and framing sunlit views of the Sierra Nevadas in the evening. Celebrating outdoor-living with direct access to skiing, hiking, and biking, the houses emphasize healthy living and environmental stewardship, as demonstrated in the project’s LEED for Homes certification design standards.