Occupying an older structure, the building site was originally the home to one of the town’s first settlers, later serving several purposes from antique shop to photography studio, residence to office, and even yoga studio.  After initially inhabiting the space, Courtney set out to thoughtfully develop the studio design from the inside out. 

Beyond a simple renovation, the additional front structure was carefully imagined for clever functionality, showcasing signature CKS design principles such as adaptive re-use and energy efficiency. Southern Colorado sunshine now heats the new front office with passive solar, taking full advantage of floor-to-ceiling windows and concrete slab floors on both levels. Courtney successfully integrated geothermal technology for the building, with an aspiration for net zero energy use. A 7.2-kilowatt solar array mounted on the steep roof contributes to the remaining building’s energy needs.  

Materials and finishes throughout the studio echo Scandinavian design influence with its clean lines and forms, including salvaged Danish and mid-century furniture. Local douglas fir wood employed for ceiling beams brings warmth and movement to the interiors. Heavy timber and steel meet on the exterior in a nod to the American West and the local vernacular. Natural materials like slate pay homage to the architect’s childhood home, which has had the same slate roof for 250 years now and counting.

Though the addition is a more modern form to its historic East Village location, the visionary design is considerate of adjacent businesses and blends seamlessly. Courtney King Studios brings effortless elegance to the Pagosa Springs’ famed thoroughfare and sets the bar for a new standard for sustainable design in Pagosa Springs.


KEYWORDS: Courtney King Studios, mountain modern, mixed-use, adaptive reuse, passive solar, geothermal, American West, Scandinavian design, sustainability, sustainable architecture, historic preservation, commercial conversion, historic Downtown Pagosa Springs, geothermal technology, hot springs, Colorado female architect.