In the heart of the Methow Valley, a hidden gem awaits adventure seekers and locals looking for a mountain retreat. We were thrilled to work with our clients to reimagine the modern mountain hostel, focusing on thoughtful design and high building performance. The result is a two-story, net-zero building offering a mix of accommodation types, including cabins, seven private bedrooms, and bunks in shared dormitories. Guests can gather in a vaulted living room, a full kitchen (with a hand-painted mural), with bathrooms located throughout the building. The large shared deck overlooks the town below, allowing guests to start or end their day feeling connected to the surrounding community.
Morgan Law
Tackman Surveying
Vertex
F.L. Cooley & Associates
Owner
2,764 sf
Winthrop, WA
Located just a block from downtown Winthrop, Washington, the hostel takes full advantage of mountain views to the east, south, and west. The site’s orientation guided the bedroom layouts to maximize vistas for each guest. The main level encourages community with a large open great room that sits below a catwalk on the second story. The communal kitchen and dining area flow to the west courtyard, creating a space for connection between travelers and locals.
The building’s exterior features locally sourced Douglas fir, harmonizing with the surrounding landscape and reinforcing the local character. Every design decision was guided by the intent to support communal living in a safe and welcoming way. This project was a collaborative effort to build and remodel the space, creating an environment where strangers become friends, and shared experiences thrive. The hostel stands as a high-performance, resilient, and inviting destination that celebrates community, connection, and the beauty of Washington.
