353 Retreat Ridge Way

Perched along a dramatic ridge north of Asheville, this breathtaking modern residence captures the essence of mountain serenity and architectural brilliance. As clouds drift past and the sun sets behind the Blue Ridge Mountains, floor-to-ceiling glass reveals an ever-changing panorama of sky, weather, and the twinkling lights of downtown Asheville. Designed by Scott Huebner of Harding Huebner Architects, the home stands as a refined union of strength, transparency, and timeless design.<br />Conceived around the architectural principle of a single sweeping roof and floor plane suspending an all-glass core, the residence appears to hover effortlessly above its rugged terrain. Steel and concrete provide both structural integrity and visual balance, anchoring the home to the mountain while heightening the illusion of weightlessness.<br />Set on a compact half-acre lot, the 3,330-square-foot design achieves a remarkable sense of openness through intelligent orientation and masterful engineering. A cantilevered terrace extends over the sloping landscape, offering panoramic views of layered mountain ridges and downtown Asheville. The exterior’s natural wood siding is left unstained to weather gracefully into a silvery gray, harmonizing with locally quarried stone and sand drawn from nearby waterways—materials chosen to create a seamless connection between architecture and landscape.<br />Inside, the design continues its dialogue with nature. Expansive windows flood the interiors with light, while eleven-foot ceilings enhance the sense of volume and air. Custom walnut cabinetry, crafted from a single tree for visual continuity, showcases an artisan level of precision. Polished marble surfaces bring timeless elegance to the kitchen and baths, complemented by a fireplace surround of lime plaster and stone. Blonde oak floors and neutral-toned finishes infuse the home with understated sophistication, balancing warmth and modern minimalism.<br />Recipient of multiple design honors—including the AIA Asheville Honor Award and national recognition from the Best in American Living Awards—this residence exemplifies architectural excellence and craftsmanship of the highest order. Every line, material, and proportion has been thoughtfully considered to harmonize modern design with the beauty of its natural surroundings.<br />Evenings unfold on the expansive terrace, where the horizon glows and the lights of Asheville shimmer in the valley below. The residence represents an evolution of the mountain home—where contemporary architecture meets the elemental rhythms of sky, stone, and light.