Mountain Modern Lake Home: Where Contemporary Design Meets Montana Heritage

Posted on: July 3, 2025

A Flathead Lake retreat showcasing the perfect blend of modern architecture and authentic Montana character

The Mountain Modern Lake Home, a collaboration between Cushing Terrell (Architect) and Gallatin Construction, is a striking example of how thoughtful material selection and architectural vision can create a lakeside retreat that is both contemporary and deeply rooted in its Montana setting. Set along the iconic shores of Flathead Lake, this custom home blends reclaimed timbers with a curated palette of Montana Timber Products’ ranchwood™ Artisan finishes, offering a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living.

ranchwood™ Artisan’s multi-step finishing process ensures each board complements the depth and patina of the architectural reclaimed elements, creating a story-rich interior and exterior that honors Montana’s building traditions.

Artisan Glacier Gray Vertical Siding, Artisan Dusk Trim (Hero)

PROJECT DETAILS

Location
Flathead Lake, Montana

Project Type
Custom Lakefront Residence

Architect
Cushing Terrell

Builder
Gallatin Construction

Photography
Heidi Long

Species + Grade
Western Red Cedar (STK – Select Tight Knot)

Main House:

Siding: 1″ x 8″ Shiplap with ⅛” Reveal | ranchwood™ Artisan Glacier Grey
Trim: 1″ x 4″ Square Edge | ranchwood™ Artisan Dusk
Interior Ceiling: 1″ x 6″ T&G | ranchwood™ Artisan Ash

Barn:

Siding: 1″ x 8″ Shiplap with ⅛” Reveal | ranchwood™ Artisan Glacier Grey
Trim: 1″ x 4″ Square Edge | ranchwood™ Artisan Dusk
Slider Door: 1″ x 8″ Shiplap | Corral Board (Authentic Reclaimed)

THE DESIGN CHALLENGE

A Wood Siding Envelope to Complement Authentic Reclaimed Timbers

Cushing Terrell and Gallatin Construction envisioned a Flathead Lake retreat that balanced modern architectural lines with the area’s natural beauty. The primary challenge was selecting a wood siding package that would seamlessly complement the home’s existing, authentic reclaimed structural timbers, which featured not just one, but two distinct color tones.

At Montana Timber Products, we meet the needs of our clients, one job at a time. This project presented a unique opportunity for our ranchwood™ Artisan line, which was meticulously crafted for this very purpose. Three specific finish combinations were selected—Glacier Grey siding, Dusk trim, and Ash for interior ceilings. This unified aesthetic not only honors the home’s heritage but also provides the durability required for Montana’s demanding lakeside climate.

Have a complex design vision or a unique material challenge? We invite you to put our expertise to the test.

ranchwood™ Artisan ‘Glacier Grey’ Siding

Artisan Ash Ceiling Hero Shot — ranchwood™ Artisan ‘Ash’ Ceiling

THE SOLUTION

ranchwood™ Artisan Finishes | Premium Western Red Cedar Siding

Montana Timber Products delivered a complete wood package featuring three carefully coordinated ranchwood™ Artisan finishes. The Glacier Grey siding paired with Dusk trim creates subtle contrast and architectural depth across both the main house and barn. Inside, the Ash-finished ceiling brightens living spaces while showcasing the craftsmanship of the timber framework.

DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

Authentic Wood Character, Modern Reliability
The ranchwood™ Artisan series replicates the subtle variation and weathered beauty of genuine reclaimed wood without the sourcing challenges of antique materials. This approach delivered the timeless aesthetic that harmonizes with Flathead Lake’s historic architecture while providing the consistency and performance of kiln-dried Western Red Cedar.

Seamless Integration
The multi-step ranchwood™ Artisan finishing process ensures each new board complements the depth and patina of the home’s reclaimed structural elements, creating a unified exterior that tells Montana’s building story.

Built to Last
All materials feature Seal-Once protection—an industry-leading, non-toxic waterproofing system that provides superior moisture resistance and environmental safety. This advanced finish ensures the home maintains its beauty and structural integrity through every Montana season.

THE RESULT

Premium Lakefront Construction: Durable Wood Siding Package for Montana Climate

The Mountain Modern Lake Home stands as a testament to the power of combining contemporary architecture with authentic Montana materials. It’s a home that is as inviting as it is enduring, perfectly suited for lakeside living on Flathead Lake. Discover how Montana Timber Products can bring your vision to life.