Two conflicting properties and a false start during the COVID-19 pandemic slowed down the building process for homeowners Rob and Julie. But through those years there were two constants: their working relationship with Barker Custom Homes and their desire for a home built with intention.

Before the pandemic, the couple held two properties: one in unincorporated Fort Collins and another in Livermore. They wanted to develop both. Julie’s research brought them into contact with Lee and Alex Barker, the father-son team at Barker Custom Homes.

“Right away, the relationship, chemistry and trust was there,” Rob says.

They started collaborating on a home for the property near Fort Collins, but the pandemic and its economic impacts put the project on hold. Four years later, the realities of mountain living—with unpredictable roads and a location just a little too far from necessities—gave way to the ease of being close to town and family. The couple decided to let the Livermore property go and focus on the project they had paused.

Intentional planning

The Barkers and architect David Hueter began the design process with the homeowners, whose goal was to minimize their carbon footprint as much as possible. They wanted to build a home that reflected the way they live by inviting the outdoors in with expansive windows and patios in the front and back.

The result is a nearly 5,000-square-foot home with four bedrooms and four-and-a-half-bathrooms that feels both lived in and purposeful.

Every inch of the home was built with a specific intent, according to Rob, who has traveled the world since he was a child and throughout his career as an engineer. The couple wanted a modern yet warm interior with a color palette that mirrors the Colorado landscape, along with subtle Asian-inspired touches.

Large windows run from floor to ceiling along both sides of the home, so the views go right through and disappear on the horizon.

“We opened the front of the home toward the western views,” says Hueter, “an unconventional decision, as most homeowners prioritize privacy at the front of their homes.”

The couple also opted out of having a formal dining area. Instead, their table in the kitchen expands for company when needed. Their primary goal is to be outdoors whenever possible.

The configuration of the three-car garage helps to block the wind, so the front patio is perfect for watching the sunset. The back patio is protected by the home and provides a spot for viewing the sunrise to the east.

Smooth lines, tall ceilings and minimalist decor in the kitchen, dining and living areas are softened by earthy browns and greens. Two-tone alder cabinetry adds a unique sense of depth and visual interest. A cleverly placed butler’s pantry and coffee bar provide additional space out of the view of guests.

“We wanted a home that was modern but fit into the landscape,” Rob says. “Modern…but not sterile.”

The main floor continues to the primary suite as well as a guest room and bathroom, mudroom, laundry area and powder bath. Expansive views to the east or west are captured in most rooms.

In the basement is another lounging area, where the couple displays their collection of art and memorabilia from trips to the Middle East and Asia. A couple of bedrooms, a workout space and Rob’s office round it out.

The corner of Rob’s office was dug out of the ground, with a dramatic rock feature that steps up to the backyard. The space allows for large windows that let in plenty of natural light and prevent the room from feeling like a dark, underground cave.

While the minimalist aesthetic runs throughout the home, behind the scenes, an efficient geothermal heating and cooling system (a signature feature in many Barker projects) provides comfort. It also keeps utility bills low.

“The homeowners were committed to building a highly energy-efficient home, which made them a great fit for our approach,” Alex says. “This allowed us to incorporate advanced systems, like geothermal radiant heating and cooling and solar energy, all while staying focused on their personal style and bringing their vision for the home to life.”

A growing legacy

Barker Custom Homes is a family-owned and -operated business that has served Northern Colorado residents for more than three decades. Over the years, the Barkers have refined the custom home building experience for their clients with an emphasis on energy efficiency and sustainable building practices.

“We take pride in a highly personalized, one-on-one approach with every client,” Alex says. “We guide you through each step, making the entire experience as smooth, personal and stress-free as possible.”

It’s a process that doesn’t neglect the human element in all of its moving parts.

“I truly enjoy getting to know my clients and taking the time to understand their wants and needs so we can help bring their dream home to life,” Alex says. “Creating homes that not only look and feel great but perform to high efficiency standards that will last for decades to come is always the goal.”

To learn more about Barker Custom Homes, visit barkercustomhomesllc.com or call 970.420.6589.

Photos by pho-co.com