Private Ranch

White Sulphur Springs, Montana
Nature and Elegance in Perfect Balance

Welcome to Private Ranch, a sanctuary where the tranquility of Montana’s infamous Smith River Valley meets a deep commitment to environmental stewardship. Spanning 22,000 acres in White Sulphur Springs, this private retreat embodies a harmonious blend of luxury, sustainability, and natural beauty.

The owners, deeply connected to their land, have dedicated themselves to enhancing both the cattle ranch's sustainability and the health of the Smith River Valley. They find joy in the simple pleasures of walking and hiking across their vast property, marveling at the contrast between textures and colors that the landscape offers, whether in the rich tapestry of native plants or the thoughtfully selected hardscape materials.

Around the main house, the landscape reflects the owner's' personal taste for Asian-inspired design. Drawing from Japanese cultural elements, carefully placed dry rock beds and minimalist fence structures create a serene atmosphere reminiscent of traditional Japanese gardens. A sedge planting replaces the traditional lawn in the rear yard, offering a sustainable alternative that seamlessly transitions into a native wildflower garden. Each year, this garden bursts into waves of pink blooms, blending naturally into the untouched landscape beyond. Complementing this is a native cutting garden, which ensures the owners have access to fresh, vibrant flowers throughout the summer months, bringing the beauty of the land indoors.

The Ranch’s lodge continues this thoughtful design, where a balance of grasses and vibrant purple and blue perennials softens the edges of the hardscape. Whether surrounding the pool, deck, or stone patios, these plantings create a peaceful, inviting environment that enhances the structure’s connection to the surrounding landscape.

Every detail of Private Ranch reflects a deep respect for nature. The landscape has been carefully curated to blend effortlessly with the surrounding environment, incorporating native flora that thrives in the region’s unique climate. This approach not only enhances the property's natural beauty but also creates a resilient ecosystem that supports local wildlife and reinforces the land's defenses against wildfires.

The owners’ passion for sustainability shines through every element of WSS Ranch. From the vibrant meadows to the serene riverbanks, this is a place where luxury does not compromise the environment. It elevates it. It is a testament to the belief that true beauty is found in the balance between elegance and ecological responsibility.

Private Ranch is not just a property. It is a living, breathing expression of the owners' values. It stands as a model for what is possible when luxury, sustainability, and a love for nature come together in perfect harmony.

Services Provided:

Site Analysis, Conceptual Design, Design Development, Construction Documents, Cost Estimating, Landscape Architecture and Design

Client:

Confidential

a house with a path leading to an alternative lawn
a house with a path leading to an alternative lawn
a stone pathway through a sedge lawn and wooden gate housee
a stone pathway through a sedge lawn and wooden gate housee
a log cabin with a metal roof
a log cabin with a metal roof
a plan for a house with a circular shaped garden
a plan for a house with a circular shaped garden
a wooden cabin in the grass
a wooden cabin in the grass
raised garden beds with native cutting flowers
raised garden beds with native cutting flowers
pink wildflowers
pink wildflowers
japanese dry garden in montana
japanese dry garden in montana
grass plants and boulders
grass plants and boulders
a natural meandering gravel plath with purple flowers and trees in a landscape
a natural meandering gravel plath with purple flowers and trees in a landscape
a natural meandering gravel plath with purple flowers and trees in a landscape
a natural meandering gravel plath with purple flowers and trees in a landscape
a natural meandering gravel plath with purple flowers and trees in a landscape
a natural meandering gravel plath with purple flowers and trees in a landscape
Collaborators:

Formescent Architects, Solstice Landscaping, Alpine Reflections