Knoll House: A Sculptural Retreat in the Appalachians

Knoll House in Asheville, NC blends modern design with sustainable principles, featuring a green roof, reclaimed materials, and minimal site impact.

Perched at 3,100 feet above sea level in a conservation community near Asheville, North Carolina, Knoll House is a modern mountain retreat that balances sculptural boldness with gentle reverence for the surrounding landscape. Designed by Rusafova-Markulis Architects in collaboration with Mountain Sound Builders and Vision Design Collaborative, the residence responds intimately to its site—a mature rhododendron forest with mossy floors, a rainforest-like microclimate, and expansive views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Commissioned by a couple relocating from Florida in search of cooler air, cultural vibrancy, and serene mountain vistas, the home is grounded in an ethos of minimal intervention and maximum immersion. From the project’s inception, the architectural team sought to disturb the natural terrain as little as possible carefully positioning the structure to preserve the site’s topography while capturing both long and close-distance views.

Framing Nature, Embracing Light

The form of the house is defined by two interlocking volumes, rotated in relation to one another to follow the contours of the land and to frame a naturally occurring knoll. This subtle angle not only responds to the topography but also directs the home’s gaze toward distant sunsets and the undulating green hills beyond.

The lower volume hosts the core living functions: kitchen, dining, living, and the primary bedroom suite. Its green roof, visible from the second level, reinforces the home’s integration into the natural landscape. Above, the second volume features two guest bedrooms, a den, and a covered terrace that floats among the treetops—perfectly oriented for mountain views and seasonal storms.

Throughout the house, indoor-outdoor living is prioritized. Triple sliding doors on the main level open fully onto a covered deck, offering a seamless connection between the living areas and the enveloping forest.

An Eclectic, Art-Driven Interior

While the exterior is a clean composition of corrugated metal sheeting—a durable, low-maintenance choice that reinforces the home’s sculptural quality the interior is warm, layered, and expressive. Reclaimed wooden floors introduce texture and patina, while an extensive art collection infuses the space with color, personality, and cultural depth.