Restoring a Legacy: A Contemporary Ranch Rooted in Conservation

March 17, 2025

Nestled within the sweeping landscapes south of Grand Teton National Park, this 35-acre project is a testament to the power of thoughtful land stewardship. Once part of the historic 800-acre Bar B Bar Ranch, the site has been reimagined to balance modern living with ecological restoration, reconnecting the land to its agrarian roots.

Site plan and context for Black Fox Ranch.

Black Fox Ranch Plan

Guided by a deep respect for place, the design prioritizes sustainability and resilience. Overgrazed pastures have been revitalized through soil remediation, biodiversity has been restored with native plantings, and historic irrigation systems have been reengineered for efficiency. A partnership with the Jackson Hole Land Trust ensures compatibility with the seasonal elk migration, while equine conservation and hay production reintroduce the agricultural legacy of the land.

Beyond its boundaries, this project embraces the broader ecological and cultural significance of Teton County, where only three percent of land is privately owned, but human impact is far-reaching. A comprehensive management framework, informed by regional conservation efforts, addresses visual integrity, wildlife corridors, and water health—creating a model for sustainable land use in the West.

The residence at night.

Four decorative patio chairs surround a fire pit on the property that overlooks the Tetons.

At the heart of the site, a modern residence and equestrian barn, designed to recede into the natural landscape, offer a seamless transition between past and present. Thoughtful interventions—windbreaks, water-wise plantings, and microclimate-responsive outdoor spaces—enhance both function and experience.

By merging history with contemporary stewardship, the project extends the legacy of place to a new generation, proving that preservation and progress can go hand in hand.

Collaborators

CLB Architects, Pegasus Design Group, Water Design, Inc., KL&A Structural Engineering, Nelson Engineering, Lux Populi, Biota Research & Consulting, KWC, Energy 1