Feb

Perfect Home Location

Why Location Matters: Finding the Perfect Lot for Your Mountain Home

A mountain home isn’t just a place to live—it’s a retreat shaped by its surroundings, designed to embrace the elements while offering lasting comfort and beauty. From crisp alpine mornings to starlit nights, the right home enhances the experience of mountain living, balancing design with the realities of the environment. At Pinnacle Mountain Homes, we specialize in building homes that are not only breathtaking but engineered to thrive in high-altitude conditions. Choosing the right site is critical—not just for the views, but for how the home interacts with its environment, withstands the elements, and functions throughout the seasons. With our design-build expertise, including the architectural insight of Collective Architecture, we guide homeowners through every step—from site selection to final construction—ensuring a home that is both stunning and structurally sound. Whether you’re selecting the perfect lot, considering a remodel of an existing home, or planning a custom build, here’s what to consider when crafting your ideal mountain retreat.

Building With the Land, Not Against It

In the mountains, a home should feel like a natural extension of its surroundings. The right site enhances architecture—framing views, capturing light, and working with the terrain rather than against it. For new builds, thoughtful positioning impacts everything from sun exposure and privacy to snow management and wind protection. Our in-house architecture team, Collective Architecture, specializes in designing homes that maximize a site’s natural beauty while ensuring structural integrity in challenging mountain conditions. For remodels, we refine existing homes to enhance their relationship with the landscape—expanding windows to highlight vistas, reconfiguring interiors for a better indoor-outdoor connection, or optimizing outdoor living spaces for year-round use. Our expertise in high-altitude renovations ensures homes not only look beautiful but function seamlessly in their environment.

Evaluating a Lot with an Existing Home

Many of the most desirable mountain properties already have homes on them. Rather than starting from scratch, a strategic remodel can modernize and optimize a home while preserving its prime location. Whether it’s updating layouts, improving energy efficiency, or reinforcing structures to withstand mountain weather, remodeling can elevate an existing property into an exceptional retreat.

The Challenges of Mountain Home Building—and How We Solve Them

Mountain construction presents unique challenges, and Pinnacle Mountain Homes has built a reputation for overcoming them. From steep slopes to extreme weather, we anticipate and engineer solutions that ensure longevity, efficiency, and ease of maintenance.

Topography & Soil Conditions – Steep lots often require additional engineering for foundations and retaining walls. We conduct early site evaluations to prevent costly surprises and design homes that work with the land’s natural contours.

Weather & Exposure – Factors like snowfall, wind, wildfire risk, and sun exposure shape design decisions. A south-facing home benefits from natural solar gain, while a north-facing site requires additional insulation and heating considerations.

Access & Infrastructure – Mountain roads can be steep and unpredictable. We ensure year-round accessibility by planning for reliable driveway grading, heating systems, and efficient utility solutions.

A site that seems perfect in summer may reveal winter access challenges or unexpected drainage issues. Our experience in high-altitude environments means we anticipate these factors, designing homes that perform as beautifully as they look.

For remodels, these same principles apply. We improve insulation, drainage, and structural reinforcements to help existing homes better withstand mountain conditions. Read More

Jan

The Impact of Pinnacle Gives

Building Homes, Building Community: The Impact of Pinnacle Gives

At Pinnacle Mountain Homes, creating exceptional homes is at the core of what we do—but contributing to a stronger, more connected community is just as important. That’s why, in 2018, we launched Pinnacle Gives to support local organizations making a meaningful difference here in Summit County.

Our efforts focus on five key areas that help enrich our community including Education & Youth, Arts & Culture, Environment, Immigration, and Healthy Communities. Through thoughtful contributions, hands-on volunteer time, and strong partnerships, we aim to create lasting change and ensure Summit County remains a vibrant and welcoming place for everyone who lives, works, or visits here.

2024: A Year of Impact

This past year, Pinnacle Gives reached exciting milestones:

44 nonprofits received funding.

Our team contributed over 400 hours of paid volunteer time.

More than 50% of our organization worked together to make a difference.

Seeing our team come together—whether volunteering on-site, supporting local events, or participating in community initiatives—was a powerful reminder of what’s possible when people unite with a shared purpose.

A Thoughtful Approach to Giving

We believe every contribution should make a meaningful difference. Our Pinnacle Gives board meets regularly to evaluate opportunities, prioritize community needs, and ensure resources go where they can have the greatest impact.

Whether it’s helping with basic needs, funding scholarships, or preserving trails, every decision reflects our commitment to helping Summit County thrive.

Making a Difference

While we’re proud to support a variety of local organizations, a few stood out this year for their incredible impact:

Friends of the Dillon Ranger District (FDRD) – We’re honored to have been named FDRD’s Volunteer Partner of the Year for 2024!

Adopt-an-Angel

Elk’s Community Dinner

Breck Backstage Theater

Smart Bellies

Family Intercultural Resource Center (FIRC)

Each of these organizations plays a vital role in our community, from protecting our natural environment to ensuring families have the resources and support they need.

Our First Full Year of Paid Volunteer Time

2024 marked the first full year of our paid volunteer time program, designed to encourage hands-on involvement. The response has been incredible. Our team members embraced the opportunity to give back, strengthening not just our community but also the bonds within our team.

Giving back is more than a commitment for us—it’s part of who we are. Whether we’re designing mountain homes or working alongside our community partners, we’re dedicated to creating a lasting, positive impact in Summit County.

Looking Ahead

As we move into 2025, we’re inspired to continue this work. Pinnacle Gives isn’t just about what we do—it’s about the people and places we serve.

Every project we take on represents another opportunity to give back—through local partnerships, volunteer efforts, or supporting organizations that make Summit County stronger. Together, we’re building more than homes; we’re shaping a community where connection and care are at the heart of everything.

To our team, our partners, and the incredible organizations we’ve worked with—thank you. It’s an honor to be part of this community, and we’re excited to see what we can achieve together in the year ahead.

For more on Pinnacle Gives and the organizations we support, visit Pinnacle Gives.

Jan

Remodeling Your Home

Remodeling Your Home:
Crafting the Mountain Lifestyle You’ve Always Envisioned

In a mountain town, location is everything. From breathtaking views to slope-side convenience or a serene spot near beloved trails, certain places hold unparalleled value. When your home doesn’t fully meet your needs, remodeling lets you preserve the location you cherish while reimagining your living space into something beautiful, functional, and perfectly suited to your mountain lifestyle.

The Value of Remodeling in a Mountain Setting

Mountain homes are as distinctive as their surroundings, requiring a thoughtful balance of comfort, resilience, and design that harmonizes with the natural beauty of the landscape. When you’ve already found your perfect location, remodeling can be the ideal path to elevate your home.

Remodeling lets you:

Adapt to Today’s Lifestyle: Redefine outdated layouts, create dedicated spaces for outdoor gear, and design open, inviting areas perfect for gathering with family and friends.
Embrace Year-Round Comfort: Thoughtful upgrades ensure your home remains a cozy retreat, no matter the season or conditions.
Celebrate Personal Style: Refresh your home with timeless, organic materials like stone, wood, and metal, blending modern elegance with mountain charm.

For many, remodeling is about creating a home that not only fits how you live today but grows with you, ensuring it remains a cherished retreat for years to come.

Upgrades That Make a Lasting Difference

Some remodeling projects go beyond aesthetics—they transform your everyday life and enhance your home’s enduring value:

Kitchens Designed for Connection: More than a space to cook, the kitchen becomes the heart of your home with open layouts, custom cabinetry, and state-of-the-art appliances that blend style and functionality.
Bathrooms That Prioritize Comfort: Spa-inspired features like walk-in showers, heated floors, and timeless finishes create a personal retreat while boosting your home’s appeal for years to come.
Outdoor Living Spaces That Inspire: Fire pits, covered patios, and outdoor kitchens seamlessly extend your living area, inviting you to relax, entertain, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the mountains year-round.

Mountain-Specific Remodeling Solutions

Mountain living presents unique challenges—steep terrain, unpredictable weather, and accessibility concerns can make remodels complex. At Pinnacle Mountain Homes, our expertise in high-altitude construction allows us to transform these challenges into opportunities for innovation.

We thoughtfully integrate features like expansive, panoramic windows to frame the stunning views and select materials that stand up to heavy snow, wind, and the test of time. From creating functional mudrooms tailored to your outdoor adventures to designing kitchens that bring people together for après-ski gatherings, every detail is crafted to enhance your lifestyle while harmonizing with the mountain environment.

Why Choose Remodeling Over Starting Fresh?

In sought-after mountain towns, the most coveted locations are often already built upon. Remodeling offers a practical and rewarding alternative to new construction, allowing you to:

Preserve What You Love: Maintain your cherished lot, breathtaking views, and the convenient access to the lifestyle that drew you to the mountains in the first place.
Streamline the Process: Remodeling is often a more time-efficient and cost-effective way to achieve a transformed living space without the extended timelines and complexities of building from scratch.
Enhance Without Relocating: Skip the stress of navigating competitive mountain real estate markets by turning your current home into the space you’ve always envisioned.

Remodeling combines the best of both worlds: the location you love with the home you’ve dreamed of.

Your Dream Mountain Home, Reimagined

A mountain home is more than just a house—it’s a place where memories are made, adventures are shared, and the beauty of nature becomes part of everyday life. Remodeling offers the unique opportunity to enhance your connection to the location you love while creating a home that perfectly aligns with your lifestyle.

At Pinnacle Mountain Homes, we take pride in crafting thoughtful renovations that blend expert craftsmanship with timeless design. From reimagining your kitchen as the heart of your gatherings to expanding outdoor spaces that celebrate mountain living, we focus on creating a home that is as functional as it is beautiful.

Let us help you transform your mountain retreat into a space that is intentionally designed, effortlessly comfortable, and uniquely yours—a home where every day feels extraordinary.

get in touch

Dec

A Peak Retreat

Featured in Modern Luxury Peak

A PEAK RETREAT
Breaking ground on this Blue River project in the middle of winter proved tricky, especially when Pinnacle Mountain Homes discovered a large clay bed beneath the foundation that required over excavation. Preserving nearby wetlands was also a concern, but despite these challenges, Pinnacle completed the six-bedroom, 5,446-square-foot home in just over a year. “The lot had incredible views, which made working on-site easy,” says Zane Levin, Pinnacle’s principal architect.

“The clients knew what they wanted and trusted the process.” The clients, a couple native to Colorado but living in Texas, sought a retreat with a look and feel that reflected their love for the mountains. Pinnacle’s in-house Collective Design , which served as both architect and interior designer, relied on unique decor to
bring nature indoors. Primary bathroom pendants resemble dripping icicles and a Hubbardton Forge crystal drop chandelier hangs above the main staircase, beautifully sparkling as it reflects sun and snow.

An earthy color palette and innovative design touches create comfortable yet functional vignettes throughout. A multi-piece coffee table in the great room can be arranged into different layouts for larger gatherings, while the barnwood-wrapped library nook features a singular chair for quiet moments. A sitting area with an agate cocktail table is framed by a black-and-white David Yarrow photo of Cara Delevingne in Leadville. At two kitchen islands, four custom Vanguard counter stools invite conversation over coffee.

One of the couple’s favorite parts about the property is a private backyard pond stocked with rainbow trout, with Quandary Peak soaring in the distance.
“They plan to use this house for their own private getaways with their two rescue dogs—and to host their growing family,” says lead designer Lauren Richards.
“Colorado has always had a special place in their hearts.”

read article

Oct

Outside Magazine Best Place to Work

The Pinnacle Companies Recognized as One of
Outside Magazine’s Best Places to Work

At Pinnacle Mountain Homes, we’re honored to be recognized by Outside Magazine as one of the Best Places to Work. This recognition is a testament to the culture we’ve worked hard to create—one that values collaboration, innovation, and, most importantly, the well-being of our team.

As a company rooted in the Colorado mountains, we know that creating beautiful homes starts with fostering an environment where employees feel supported, inspired, and empowered to do their best work. Our team thrives in a culture that balances professional excellence with personal growth, which not only benefits our team members but also enhances the quality of the homes we build.

Life at Pinnacle goes beyond work. We celebrate our shared love for the outdoors with activities like annual team trips to Mexico, ski days at Arapahoe Basin, and our summer picnic, where employees and their families come together. Employees are encouraged to embrace the stunning surroundings through outdoor interest groups for activities like hiking, skiing, or mountain biking. Monthly gatherings also bring everyone together, building a strong sense of community.

This recognition by Outside Magazine underscores the importance of creating a workplace where people feel valued and excited to come to work each day. We’re proud to provide a space where talented individuals can grow their careers while enjoying everything life in the mountains has to offer.

For us, being named one of the Best Places to Work is more than an accolade—it reflects our belief that happy, healthy employees are the foundation of exceptional homes and lasting client relationships. We’re excited to continue building great homes and an even stronger workplace culture in the years to come.

Oct

The Building Process

From Concept to Creation: Navigating the Process of Building Your Mountain Home

Building a custom mountain home is an exciting opportunity to create a retreat that allows you to fully embrace the mountain lifestyle—a place to escape, enjoy outdoor adventures, and gather with loved ones. Beyond providing a sanctuary for today, this home is a chance to build a legacy—a place for future generations to create lasting memories in a setting that reflects both your style and the beauty of the surrounding landscape.

STEP 1: SHAPING YOUR VISION

Begin by considering how you’ll use your home throughout the year. Will it serve as a cozy winter retreat, a summer haven for outdoor activities, or both? Large windows can offer stunning views, but they also impact energy efficiency during colder months. Working with an architect early ensures that your vision balances your lifestyle needs while maximizing the unique features of your mountain property—natural light, views, and terrain.

STEP 2: CHOOSING THE RIGHT TEAM

The success of your project hinges on assembling the right team. Mountain construction requires expertise in managing steep terrain, unpredictable weather, and logistics. Skilled professionals can guide you through these challenges, executing your vision to the highest standards. Look for a team with proven experience in mountain builds and a history of effectively navigating high-altitude demands. Pinnacle Mountain Homes brings this specialized experience, combining clear communication and craftsmanship to ensure that architects, builders, and clients stay aligned from start to finish.

STEP 3: DESIGNING WITH THE LANDSCAPE

Designing a mountain home can seem complex, but Pinnacle Mountain Homes makes it a smooth process by managing the details. We position your home thoughtfully to capture natural light, views, and optimal terrain use, allowing you to focus on the enjoyable parts—like selecting materials that enhance the environment. Our expertise minimizes design challenges, ensuring the home harmonizes with the landscape from day one.

STEP 4: NAVIGATING PERMITS AND APPROVALS

Permitting can feel daunting, but at Pinnacle, we take care of every step. With deep knowledge of local zoning and environmental regulations, we anticipate issues and work to avoid delays, keeping your project on track. You’ll stay informed through regular updates without the stress of managing paperwork.

STEP 5: CONSTRUCTION AND CRAFTSMANSHIP

During construction, several details ensure your home’s longevity. Foundations and drainage systems must be expertly designed to withstand slopes and runoff. Roofing should handle heavy snow loads, and weather-resistant materials are essential for protecting against strong winds and fluctuating temperatures. Energy-efficient insulation and windows keep your home comfortable while lowering long-term energy costs. At Pinnacle Mountain Homes, we manage these complexities seamlessly, ensuring your home is both beautiful and resilient. We handle the challenges, so you can enjoy the process of seeing your vision take shape.

STEP 6: POST-CONSTRUCTION CARE

Once complete, mountain homes require diligent maintenance. Shifting mountain climates bring snow, ice, and temperature fluctuations that can impact your home’s structure and systems. Regular inspections are essential for preserving both functionality and beauty. Pinnacle’s Lodging HomeCare team provides routine checks, seasonal inspections, and fast issue resolution to give you peace of mind, knowing your mountain retreat will continue serving your family for generations.

COMPLETING THE VISION

Building a custom mountain home is about more than construction—it’s about creating something timeless. Every decision, from design through to completion, reflects how you want to live, connect, and experience the world around you. As your home takes shape, it becomes a testament to the lifestyle you cherish and the legacy you want to leave behind. With the right team beside you, the journey becomes transformative, creating a home that endures beautifully and becomes the heart of your family’s mountain story for years to come.

Oct

Best of Summit 2024

We’re thrilled to be named Summit County’s Best Builder! It’s a reflection of the care we put into every project and the strong relationships we build with our clients. For us, it’s not just about construction—it’s about creating homes that capture the unique vision of each homeowner.

This award really speaks to the teamwork behind everything we do. From our architects to our builders, everyone plays a part in making sure we meet the high standards we’re known for. Most importantly, it’s a reminder of the trust our clients place in us to create homes that truly stand the test of time.

Sep

How to Choose a Home Builder

How to Choose a Home Builder:
Insights from Pinnacle Mountain Homes

Building a home is more than a construction project; it’s about creating a space for lasting memories, milestones, and comfort. Choosing the right home builder is key for a successful andenjoyable experience. At Pinnacle Mountain Homes, we understand the importance of thisdecision and the emotions it involves. A home builder who aligns with your vision can make thejourney smoother and more rewarding, ensuring every detail is thoughtfully handled. To assistyou in your search, we’ve put together key tips to guide you in finding a home builder who willbring your vision to life.

Understanding the building process

A great home builder should guide you through each phase of construction with clarity and expertise. Managing expectations is crucial for a smooth, stress-free experience. Look for a builder who provides a clear, detailed timeline and proactively addresses any questions or concerns. Regular updates and open communication can turn what might seem like an overwhelming process into a collaborative and enjoyable experience, ensuring you feel informed and involved every step of the way.

Look for shared values and strong relationships

Homebuilding is about more than just constructing a space-it’s about building relationships based on shared values and trust. Choose a home builder whose principles resonate with your own. At Pinnacle Mountain Homes, we are guided by our virtues of Gratitude, Excellence, Trust, Happiness, Integrity, Community, Compassion, and Courage. These virtues are the foundation of our work and help us build luxury homes and lasting partnerships. By aligning our values with yours, we create a collaborative environment that enhances your entire experience, marked by clear understanding and lasting satisfaction.

Consider the Unique Challenges of Your Site

Every building site comes with its own set of challenges, especially in mountainous or alpine environments. Balancing stunning views with energy efficiency and cost management can be complex. A skilled builder will find creative solutions to optimize layout, design, and cost. For example, challenging excavation may increase expenses, but an experienced builder will identify other opportunities to offset costs while maintaining the integrity of your design. Working with a builder who has experience in your specific environment ensures that your home will strike the perfect balance between beauty, functionality, and budget.

Balance Desires of Quality, Cost and Schedule

When starting your homebuilding journey, remember that cost is just one of three key factors along with quality and schedule. It’s important to strike a balance. For example, a lower bid might seem appealing, but often comes at the expense of quality and long-term satisfaction. Evaluate builders based on their ability to deliver high standards of craftsmanship while respecting your budget and schedule. At Pinnacle, we see ourselves as stewards of your vision and your budget, ensuring you have the information needed to make the best decisions without compromising on quality.

Ensure Post-Project Support

Your home is central to your life, and ongoing maintenance is key to preserving its value and ensuring continued comfort. Look for a builder who offers strong post-project support. Our Pinnacle Lodging HomeCare team provides routine maintenance checks, seasonal inspections, and fast issue resolution. We develop personalized care plans tailored to your home’s unique needs, ensuring it remains comfortable and functional long after construction is complete. This ongoing support protects your investment and gives you peace of mind.

Embrace Every Step

Building a home is filled with milestones, and while the finished product is the ultimate goal, each phase is significant. For us, the framing stage is particularly exciting because it’s when the abstract design begins to take shape, offering the first real glimpse of your future home. As you move through the process, take time to appreciate these moments. Embracing every stage—from groundbreaking to finishing touches—deepens your connection to the project and makes the entire experience more rewarding.

The Advantage of Design + Build Firms

When choosing a home builder, consider the efficiency and value of having a comprehensive, approach that includes construction, architecture, interior design, furnishings, and homecare. Working with a singular partner ensuring that every detail is handled with precision and care. This integrated approach simplifies the process by ensuring seamless coordination and communication across all aspects of your project. By managing everything under one roof, we reduce potential complications and ensure your vision is brought to life with the highest standards of quality.

Moving Forward with Confidence

Choosing the right home builder is about finding a partner who aligns with your vision and values. Look for a builder who is committed to providing a positive experience, marked by quality, transparency, and care. Builders who offer a comprehensive and integrated approach ensure that every detail of your project is handled to the highest standards, reflecting your personal goals. The right builder will make the home-building process not just smooth, but a truly rewarding journey. Clear communication, attention to your needs, and a shared commitment to excellence will turn your vision into a home. 

talk to us about building your mountain home

Aug

Parade of Homes 2024

PARADE OF HOMES 2024

The Parade of Homes is a highly anticipated event celebrating the forefront of design and architecture. This year, the 2024 Breckenridge Parade of Homes will feature a standout property built by Pinnacle Mountain Homes, with interiors and furnishings thoughtfully curated by Collective Design, and architecture by the skilled team at bhh Partners. This home offers a fresh perspective on modern mountain living, highlighting unparalleled craftsmanship and innovative use of space.

Nestled in Western Sky Ranch, this home boasts breathtaking views of Breckenridge Ski Resort and the Tenmile Range. This stunning location has been skillfully transformed into a perfect setting for mountain living, seamlessly blending modern design with the majestic mountain landscape. One of the standout features is a striking board-formed concrete wall on the lower level, which serves as both a functional and visual centerpiece. The ability to integrate bold elements with practical design solutions shines throughout, creating a harmonious balance that is as beautiful as it is functional.

Outside, the home is distinguished by sleek, flat roofs that enhance its modern aesthetic while harmonizing with the surrounding natural environment. The home is also ZERH (Zero Energy Ready Home) certified, reflecting a deep commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability—a priority for everyone involved in the project.

Building in a mountain environment comes with its challenges, but Pinnacle Mountain Homes rose to the occasion, maintaining a strong focus on client satisfaction through exceptional communication and trust. Their dedication turned this vision into a reality, delivering a home that offers an extraordinary living experience. By prioritizing clear communication and maintaining a high level of trust throughout the process, Pinnacle ensured that high-quality finishes and superior craftsmanship resulted in a truly remarkable final product that will serve the owners for years to come.

The interiors, designed by Collective Design, are a beautiful reflection of the client’s personal style. The space marries modern elegance with a bespoke approach, featuring expansive floor-to-ceiling windows inviting the natural beauty of the outdoors, creating a light-filled, open atmosphere. Warm wood accents, sophisticated wallpaper, intricately detailed ceilings, and soft furnishings were carefully chosen to refine the home’s character while embodying the client’s distinct personality. The result is a vibrant yet inviting interior, where patterns and textures echo the outdoors, while a clean, sleek design imparts warmth and a sense of lived-in comfort.

We invite you to explore the 2024 Breckenridge Parade of Homes and experience how this home blends cutting-edge design with awe-inspiring mountain views. It’s a chance to see firsthand how a collaborative design-build process, rooted in trust and client satisfaction, can elevate the mountain living experience.

For more information and tickets, please visit the Summit County Builders Association website.

Mar

Celebrating a Space for Family in Western Sky Ranch

CELEBRATING A SPACE FOR FAMILY IN WESTERN SKY RANCH

We are honored to be featured in the March/April issue of Colorado Homes and Lifestyles magazine, sharing the story of our journey in building a family home high above the town of Breckenridge, Colorado. Our vision was clear from the outset: to build not just a house, but a home that would grow with our client’s family, filled with memories across generations.

Set on a 24-acre lot in Western Sky Ranch, the home was designed by bhh Partners, with the creative guidance of Nicole Bruno from Collective Design for the interiors. The design vision combined with the building expertise of Pinnacle Mountain Homes brought to life a unique family home that embraces the stunning natural surroundings of Breckenridge.

The home is a testament to our client’s values and deep connection to the mountains. It stands as a place of gathering, growth, and endless possibilities, capturing their desire for a life intertwined with nature and each other.

We are deeply grateful to Colorado Homes and Lifestyles for highlighting this home. This feature is a celebration of our incredible team of employees and contractors who helped bring the home to life.

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