10 Hallmarks of Old Tahoe Style

by Bruce Olson

All architectural design carefully exercises fundamental design principles, draws influence from earlier designs and develops a unique form in response to the particular time and place in which such design exists. Old Tahoe style uses fundamental design principles to interpret relevant features of the Arts and Crafts Movement, old Park Service buildings, Adirondack summer camps, shingle-style homes and Tyrolean chalets in response to Lake Tahoe's unique environment. The result is a unique vernacular style, epitomized by the following hallmarks:

1. The repetition of detailing, such as deep-set windows with well-articulated trim, unites varying elements to present the complete and harmonious image of Old Tahoe style. So, while each window may be unique in size and proportion, the prominent repeating detail unites the overall image.
2. A prominent and well-proportioned fi replace provides an extended focal point that simultaneously catches attention while expanding the viewer's attention to the entire structure.
3. Deep roof overhangs create wonderful shadow lines and afford the building and its occupants protection from the elements of the changing seasons. These deep overhangs and shadow lines allow building occupants to relate to the change in scale from the indoors to the outdoors.
4. Shed or gabled dormers are both compositional and functional elements in Old Tahoe style. Dormers create balance to the overall composition of the building, proportioning large spans of roof to an appropriate scale. Dormers also produce usable space, enable views and bring natural light to areas that may otherwise be small, confi ned and dark.
5. Old Tahoe style incorporates singlestory elements with two-story buildings to bring the massing into proportion with the scale of the building. The viewer is then able to relate to the scale of the building and to perceive what may otherwise be a very large structure as being approachable.
6. Rustic stonework and other native materials provide texture, depth and durability to the building's surfaces. Utilizing different, yet harmonious, materials on different portions of the building breaks up large surfaces, bringing the structure to a human scale.
7. The varied values of a natural color palette allow the viewer to read the depth and space in relation to the natural surroundings. Accenting window trim with vibrant natural colors, such as reds, greens or yellows, provides a colorful yet harmonious interest to the building.
8. Creating integrated indoor/outdoor living spaces is essential to Tahoe mountain living and a key feature of Old Tahoe style. Appropriately proportioned and protected expanses of operable glass allow indoor living spaces to merge with the outdoors throughout the changing seasons.
9. Exposed, detailed beams and rafters express the structure traditional to Old Tahoe style construction.
10. Old Tahoe style buildings work with natural site features, nestling into rock outcroppings or carefully stepping around majestic trees.