
Olson Kundig Reveals Design of Larch House in Whitefish
Olson Kundig is excited to announce Larch House, a hotel located in Whitefish, Montana, led by design principal Tom Kundig, FAIA, RIBA. In collaboration with real estate firm Shop Development and landscape architect BUD Creative, Larch House is positioned to redefine hospitality in the Rocky Mountains with its design, amenities, and dedication to sustainable practices.
Nestled in the historic Railway District of downtown Whitefish, a short walk to the hike-and-bike path that leads to Whitefish River and Whitefish Lake, Larch House will have 39 rooms spread among an enclave of 10 buildings that will include amenities that celebrate the natural surroundings. Focal points include a central courtyard with an architectural boulder garden and fire pits, an exceptional food and beverage program, a rooftop heated pool and sundeck and private event space. All interior spaces have been designed by Olson Kundig with a balanced mix of vintage Scandinavian and custom pieces. Larch House also contains a private art collection featuring the work of established artists.
“Throughout the process of creating Larch House we’ve looked to the past but also embraced modern architecture and design to deliver an extraordinary hotel,” says Daniel Fuller, president of SHOP Development. “Larch House is a modern reimagining of an alpine lodge and we believe it will be a transformational anchor for Whitefish residents and visitors alike.”
Tom Kundig, FAIA, RIBA, principal/owner and founder of Olson Kundig, adds, “We’re seeing a trend throughout a lot of ski towns as they make a transition to become year-round adventure destinations. Regardless of the season you’re visiting, you still need a comfortable refuge before embarking on those big adventures out in nature. Larch House gives visitors a choice to tailor their refuge and their adventure.”
Larch House’s dynamic design lends itself to an experience that feels akin to being a guest in a private home, giving a sense of discretion. All guest rooms and suites will be designed with custom furnishings, heated bathroom floors, original art, and local products. Additional fitness and wellness programming will be provided via local studio partnerships.
Dining at Larch House embraces alpine-inspired cuisine with a focus on local purveyors. At the center of the culinary experience is Enga, a distinctive indoor-outdoor dining space located on the main floor. Offering unobstructed mountain views, guests can also visit the rooftop Terrace for beverages and small bites. The Antler Room, an intimate lounge on the lower level, offers a dim-lit retreat where elevated mixed drinks and shared plates foster an inviting atmosphere for evening gatherings or quiet moments. Also situated on the lower level, The Oak Room provides an elegant setting for private celebrations and personalized experiences.
Developed with the landscape and community in mind, Larch House is committed to employing local artisans and tradespeople while also using sustainably sourced natural building products and native plants and trees. With the Whitefish River and Whitefish Lake minutes outside of the hotel doors, or a 30-minute drive to Glacier National Park, Larch House is steeped in recreation for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy a host of activities that include fly fishing, hiking, wakesurfing, rafting, horseback riding, paddle boarding and snow skiing. Larch House provides ski storage and offers designated dog-friendly rooms within the property, ensuring a comfortable stay for guests traveling with their pets.