Frantz Ski Haus - Squaw Valley

This project was designed for a family with long ties to Squaw Valley. The owner grew up in the area and spent winters on the mountain, staying in her family home located in the valley.  

When a lot became available adjacent to the existing family home owned by her aunt and uncle since 1977, they purchased the property with the intent of building a second home to accommodate their growing family. 

The goal was to design a 3,500 square foot home with four bedrooms and five baths.  As the design evolved, there was an opportunity to add a second floor bunk room (six beds) and loft/play area. That increased the area to 4,200 square feet, but was seen as a much-needed kid zone.

The home consists of two wings, one which is four bedrooms with en suite baths. The other is the common/entertaining spaces and great room—set on axis for views to Squaw Creek. The entry lands between the two wings of the home. The entertaining areas and master bedroom open up to terraces adjacent to the creek.  

Vernacular alpine forms were a driver for the design for snow and simplicity in construction, in addition to being in harmony with the forest environment.  

The home started construction in the fall of 2019. 

Architect:  Magnin Architecture 

Structural Engineer:  Gabbart and Woods Tahoe 

General Contractor:  Mountain Craft Construction

Final