Spring Creek: Black AquaFir Set In Wyoming

Posted on: May 30, 2025

Inspired by Nature, Crafted for Durability

Mountain Living’s May/June 2025 issue (page 95) features the “Animal Instincts” home, highlighting how thoughtful design and material choices create a strong connection between the architecture and its natural surroundings. The project in Black AquaFir demonstrates how careful attention to detail can blend a modern home seamlessly into the Wyoming landscape.

PROJECT DETAILS

THE VISION

A Modern Retreat Rooted in Nature

The homeowners envisioned a space that would celebrate the drama and serenity of the wild, drawing inspiration from the instinctual beauty of animals and their environments. The goal: a home that feels both timeless and contemporary, where natural wood and expansive windows invite the outdoors in.

“the 4,838-square-foot dwelling is deceptively simple, nestling into the scenery unobtrusively. It presents as a long, one-story home clad in Douglas fir with a metal roof and lots of windows. A large glass-fronted dormer, however, hints at the interior’s complexity”

THE SOLUTION

Single Story, Modern Clean Lines, Natural Wood Siding in Black AquaFir™

Black was chosen for its deep, rich finish and ability to highlight the natural grain and texture of Douglas Fir to shine through. This prefinished siding, soffit, and fascia provide a cohesive, modern look while offering durability and low maintenance-ideal for mountain climates. The consistent use of AquaFir™ Black across all exterior wood elements creates visual unity, paired with a large glass dormer, perfect for wildlife viewing.

AquaFir™ is crafted for versatility, allowing for custom profiles and applications that meet the unique needs of any design. Manufactured in the USA, each board is prefinished and sealed for lasting protection, simplifying installation and ensuring a premium result.

DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

Harmonizing Natural Beauty and Modern Functionality

Design Integration – The collaboration between Baldrige Architects (a Forbes Top 200 Residential Architect) and Wilkinson-Montesano Builders resulted in a home where every detail is intentional. The dark, semi-transparent finish of AquaFir™ Black was chosen to create a striking silhouette allowing the natural wood grain to remain visible and tactile. This was paired with a simple gable roof to create a clean line within the landscape.

Material Cohesion – Using AquaFir™ Black for siding, soffit, and fascia creates a seamless exterior envelope, enhancing the home’s modern lines and ensuring visual unity across all elevations.

Easy, Eco-Friendly Upkeep – AquaFir™ Black’s water-based stain can be quickly reapplied (brushed or sprayed) onto siding, soffit, or fascia for touch-ups-no heavy prep or harsh chemicals needed. This makes on-site maintenance simple and environmentally conscious, with lower VOCs than oil-based stains

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Biophilic Interior Design with Prefinished Natural Wood

Posted on: November 8, 2024

Elevating Spaces Through Strategic Placement of Natural Materials

Project Details

Location
Malaga, WA

Project Type
Private Residence

Applications + Products

Horizontal Siding: 1″x8″ AquaFir™ Shiplap in Cascade color, wire-brushed texture
Soffits: 1″x6″ AquaFir™ T&G in Driftwood color, smooth texture
Interior Ceilings: 1″x6″ AquaFir™ T&G in Driftwood color, smooth texture
Trim: 1″x4″ AquaFir™ Square Edge in Cascade and Driftwood colors, wire-brushed texture

Species + Grade

Kiln Dried Douglas Fir | Knotty #2btr

THE VISION

Seamless Integration with Natural Elements

The architects envisioned a residence that would celebrate the breathtaking views of Malaga, Washington while providing a comfortable, modern indoor environment. Central to this vision was the careful planning of a built environment that would seamlessly blend in with the natural world around it, incorporating natural materials to foster a strong connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.

THE SOLUTION

A Range of Wood Finishes For This Tranquil Retreat

To bring this biophilic design vision to life, the design team skillfully matched the blonde natural wood aesthetic of the interior ceiling paneling to the cabinetry package. Then continued the look to the exterior soffits for a seamless monochromatic design integration.

The combination of selected colors paired perfectly with this home’s design vision and nature-inspired elements. The combination of horizontal siding, soffits, and trim pieces were all crafted out of Douglas Fir from the Pacific Northwest.

Design Considerations

Material Integration: The AquaFir™ wood cladding was thoughtfully integrated with adjoining materials, creating a seamless transition between different natural elements of the home’s exterior and interior. This careful integration enhances the overall aesthetic and ensures a cohesive architectural design and visual appeal felt throughout the residence.
Functional Biophilic Design: The wood cladding not only serves as a protective exterior layer but also contributes to the biophilic design of the home. By incorporating natural building materials, textures, and colors, the design creates a strong connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, promoting well-being and a soothing atmosphere.
Interior-Exterior Flow: The use of AquaFir™ in exterior siding and interior elements helps blur the boundaries between inside and outside, creating a fluid living experience enriched by natural light. This seamless transition encourages residents to engage more fully with their surroundings and enjoy the benefits of indoor-outdoor living.
Strategic Wood Placement: The architectural design carefully considered the placement of wood elements to maximize their visual and functional impact. From the horizontal siding to the soffits and trim, each application of AquaFir™ was thought out to enhance the home’s architectural features and create a harmonious overall biophilic design.

This stunning residence showcases the versatility of Montana Timber Products’ AquaFir™ line, demonstrating how thoughtful material selection and application can create a visually striking home deeply connected to its surrounding natural environment.

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Ranchwood™ Artisan Elevates Lakeside Vacation Estate

Posted on: August 14, 2024

Tailoring Custom Finishes for a Luxurious Texas Residence

PROJECT DETAILS

Location
Central Texas

Project Type
Private Residence

Applications + Products

Exterior Vertical Cladding: ranchwood™ Artisan | Custom Color | Raked | 1×8” | Shiplap
Interior Walls: ranchwood™ Artisan | Custom Color | Circle Sawn | 1×8” & 1×10” | Shiplap
Interior Ceilings: ranchwood™ Artisan | Custom Color | Raked | 1×8” | Shiplap

Species + Grade

Douglas Fir (#2Btr)

The Vision

This custom resort style estate was visualized as the ultra-spacious and accommodating family vacation compound. The design vision incorporates expansive lake views and large outdoor indoor/outdoor spaces, to create a fusion of luxury with contemporary modern features and rustic natural wood. The ranchwood™ Artisan materials reflect the home’s sophisticated character while enhancing its picturesque lakeside setting.

The Solution

To achieve this design motif the project intentionally utilized Douglas Fir with custom finishes. The Artisan Circle Sawn and Artisan Raked textures, provided the perfect balance between classic charm and contemporary design. Tight shiplap profile on both exterior walls and interior ceilings creates a high-end appearance that complements the layout of the home.

Design Considerations

Customization: Custom colors and textures were purposefully selected to align with the design vision.
Durability: Montana Timber Products pre-finishes all sides of each board and includes relief cuts to help reduce movement. The result is a premium long lasting natural wood material.
Biophilic Space: Integrating natural wood with modern design elements creates a luxurious, relaxing atmosphere both inside and outside.

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You have a design vision. We can partner with you to deliver on it.

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Stonewood: The People’s Choice In Park City

Posted on: January 5, 2024

MTP Plays Featured Role in Winning the Showcase of Homes

PROJECT DETAILS

Location
Utah

Project Type
Single Family Residence

Project Partners
Chatwin Homes (Builder)
The Lifestyle Collective (Interior Designer)

Video via Utah Valley Videos

THE VISION

Dylan Chatwin of Chatwin Homes and Delia Chatwin from The Lifestyle Collective envisioned a project that serves as “a love letter to those who care and are passionate about quality build and design.” Stonewood, a project close to their hearts, aimed not only to present a signature property in the Park City Showcase but also to showcase their distinctive design aesthetic. – Organic Earth.

THE SOLUTION

Walking through Stonewood, the goal was for visitors to sense the genuine love and meticulous care infused into every aspect of the home. To realize this aesthetic, the project incorporated materials with neutral tones, warm organic palettes, and abundant texture.

Intentionally using travertine stone, concrete, and wood throughout the property brought the essence of the outdoors inside. The selection of AquaFir™ in various shades, particularly the dramatic AquaFir Black cladding in the dining room, added a unique touch, complementing the overall design and encouraging occupants to appreciate the natural beauty surrounding the space.

Stonewood stands as a 10,221-square-foot masterpiece, showcasing the seamless integration of AquaFir™ into its design.

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Photos via Tim Boone

Why was AquaFir™ Specified for this Home?

natural wood cladding value proposition - aquafir prefinished wood - montana timber products

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WOODLANDS: A SUSTAINABLE MULTIGENERATIONAL HAVEN

Posted on: December 20, 2023

AquaFir™ Accentuates Generational Vermont Residence

PROJECT DETAILS

Location
Vermont

Project Type
Multigenerational Residence

Product
AquaFir™ | Battleship | Wire Brushed

THE WOODLANDS RESIDENCE

Woodlands stands as a testament to family legacy, spanning three generations within the serene woods of Richmond, Vermont. This thoughtfully designed residence harmonizes communal and private spaces, ensuring the essential equilibrium for a multigenerational household.

NATURE-INSPIRED DESIGN

Deeply rooted in its forest surroundings, Woodlands embraces sustainable living practices to minimize its environmental impact. The absence of fossil fuels, compliance with Vermont’s stringent energy stretch code, and a strategic site plan that integrates with existing trails and outdoor spaces showcase the commitment to a symbiotic relationship with nature.

AQUAFIR™ INTEGRATION

In line with the eco-conscious ethos, the choice of AquaFir™ Battleship for exterior applications, with its wire-brushed finish, not only aligns with contemporary aesthetics but also reflects the essence of the wooded landscape. The warm tones and textured allure of AquaFir™ seamlessly blend with the natural surroundings, creating a visual dialogue between the architectural design and the forested haven.

LEARN MORE ABOUT AQUAFIR™

Explore the sustainable and aesthetic qualities of AquaFir that contribute to the eco-friendly narrative of Woodlands. From modern designs to the inherent beauty of natural materials, AquaFir™ emerges as a vital element in this narrative.

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MOUNTAIN MODERN MEETS HOME HARDENED

Posted on: October 27, 2023

Crafting a Dream Home That’s Wildfire-Ready in Sierra Nevada

PROJECT DETAILS

Location
California

Project Type
Private Residence

Applications

Siding: 1×6″ | Shiplap w/ 1/4″ Reveal
Trim: 2×10 | Square Edge
Soffit: 1×6″ | Tongue & Groove

Product

AquaFir™ | Tobacco | Smooth | CVG Cedar

**All materials protected with Fireline™ Pressure-Treated.**

THE VISION

Nestled in the idyllic Sierra Nevada Mountains of California, a homeowner dreamed of a special mountain retreat. Their vision was not just about creating a striking contemporary design, but also about ensuring that it could weather the challenges posed by the area’s recurring wildfires.

THE SOLUTION

To bring their dream to life while addressing the wildfire concern, the homeowner took practical steps to safeguard their sanctuary.

First, they established a safe buffer zone between the house and the surrounding forest, a measure that added a layer of protection.

The next crucial step involved choosing Fireline™ Pressure-Treated wood for all their natural wood materials, making their home compliant with Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) standards. This simple decision enhanced the natural wood’s ability to withstand potential threats.

Now, the homeowner could cherish the beauty of natural wood while feeling secure in the knowledge that their retreat was equipped to stand strong in the face of nature’s unpredictable challenges. This home became a testament to both aesthetics and practicality, offering peace of mind amidst its cozy ambiance.

LEARN MORE ABOUT AQUAFIR

LEARN MORE ABOUT FIRE RESISTANT WOOD

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Natural Wood Elegance in Arizona

Posted on: August 25, 2023

Beautifying a Desert Home’s Aesthetic with Prefinished Wood Cladding

PROJECT DETAILS

Location
Arizona

Project Type
Private Residence

Applications

Siding + Interior Cladding: 1×6 | Shiplap w ⅛” reveal
Ceiling + Soffit: 1×6 | Shiplap w ⅛” reveal

Product

THE VISION

Amidst the arid expanse of Arizona’s desert, the design aspiration for this residence was clear – to harmonize the architectural elements with the warmth of natural wood. The homeowner sought to cultivate an atmosphere that not only encapsulated the region’s essence but also radiated a sense of refined elegance.

THE SOLUTION

In pursuit of this vision, Western Red Cedar emerged as the natural solution of choice. Possessing inherent qualities that effortlessly withstand the demanding Arizona climate, Cedar evokes a sense of timeless splendor while mirroring the rugged grace of the desert landscape.

The pairing of the dark and the light – Charwood™ Midnight and Aquafir™ Cascade – was a deliberate selection, carefully curated to instill the exterior and interior with a captivating narrative. This aesthetic interplay not only visually connects the spaces but also serves as a testament to the nuanced design sensibilities at play.

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LEARN MORE ABOUT CHARWOOD

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MOUNTAIN HAVEN WITH FIRE-TREATED RANCHWOOD™

Posted on: July 28, 2023

Utilizing Fireline Pressure-Treated Western Red Cedar for Enhanced Safety

PROJECT DETAILS

Location
California

Project Type
Private Residence

Applications

Siding:
1×4 | Shiplap w/ ¼” Reveal | Wire Brushed
1×6 | Shiplap w/ ¼” Reveal | Wire Brushed

Soffit: 1×6 | Tongue and Groove | Wire Brushed

Product

ranchwood™ | Yellowstone | Western Red Cedar (STK)
Fireline Pressure-Treated

THE VISION

A modern and elegant mountain design which embraces the natural beauty of the surroundings while prioritizing measures to safeguard against the ever-present wildfire risk. To achieve this vision the owner purposefully sought out specific building materials on the exterior facade to beautify and protect the structure.

THE SOLUTION

For this exceptional project, the owner chose Western Red Cedar, expertly finished in ranchwood™ Yellowstone, which added a visually stunning touch adjoining the natural stone facade. The selected natural wood material is fire-treated with Montana Timber Products proprietary Fireline™ Pressure-Treated. The residence stands as a testament to a perfect balance of elegance and protection.

Fireline™ Pressure-Treated Excellence:
The Fireline™ Pressure-Treated wood fire treatment not only met the homeowner’s aesthetic preferences but also provided a key advantage in wildfire-prone regions. The treated wood is compliant with WUI (Wildland Urban Interface) and I-WUI (International Wildland Urban Interface) standards, offering peace of mind and increased protection against potential wildfires.

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LEARN MORE ABOUT FIRE TREATMENT OPTIONS

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SET APART WITH SNOWDRIFT

Posted on: July 13, 2023

A Modern Farmhouse Accentuated with Aquafir™

PROJECT DETAILS

Location
Idaho

Project Type
Private Residence

Applications

Siding:
1×8 Boards | Square Edge | Wire Brushed
1×3 Battens | Square Edge | Wire Brushed

Soffit: 1×6 | Tongue and Groove | Wire Brushed

Fascia: 2×8 | Square Edge | Wire Brushed

Horizontal Band: 2×6, 2×10 and 2×12 | Square Edge | Wire Brushed

Window Header: 3×8 | Square Edge | Resawn

Window Trim: 2×4 | Square Edge | Wire Brushed

Garage Door Header: 3×8 | Square Edge | Resawn

Product

THE VISION

An exquisite modern farmhouse design featuring an inviting artisanal white color scheme that gracefully contrasts with dark trim, beautifully accentuated by the warm and rustic tones of natural wood.

THE SOLUTION

The diverse color range offered by our Aquafir™ product line perfectly manifested the desired aesthetics and ambiance envisioned.

The subtle color variations inherent in natural wood bestowed a depth upon the home’s white finish that artificial materials simply cannot replicate.

The decision to complement the Snowdrift exterior cladding with Natural soffits and Black trim accents harmoniously tied together the overall design.

By aiming to be set apart in the neighborhood, this project achieved resounding success!

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TIGER & MIDNIGHT SPLIT CABIN

Posted on: May 22, 2023

A modern cabin clad with distinctive Charwood

PROJECT DETAILS

Location
Washington

Project Type
Private Retreat

Product

Charwood™ | Tiger & Midnight | Douglas Fir

THE VISION

The design intention of this structure was to create a modern cabin with blurred lines between inside and outside spaces. Contrasting light and dark shou sugi ban was selected to energize the living quarters and calm the resting spaces. The building location is perfectly situated on a bouldered bench in a secluded valley of Central Washington.

THE SOLUTION

Midnight and Tiger Charwood™ were intentionally selected for a distinctive natural interior and exterior envelope on this secluded cabin retreat. The divergent char colors of this shou sugi ban inspired product instills a stunning contrastive aesthetic that flows naturally with the beauty that surrounds it. The line between inside and outside is ambiguous, allowing a cozy inside feel while surrounded by a striking mountainscape.

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