Historic Preservation

Sungate

Sungate is a modern designed studio-residence situated on a short grass hill in eastern Boulder County. Constructed in 1977 by architect and owner Philip Jones, Sungate is an excellent example of passive solar design that incorporates the use of newly available technologies during the 1970s energy crisis to produce a truly “green building.” The building utilizes identical materials for both the exterior and interior construction resulting in a high sense of architectural continuity. The main entrance to the house is located at the northeast building corner and joined by two ramps that extend up to the loft space and down to a central space. The open interior design serves to make the heating and cooling systems work efficiently without the aid of ductwork, fans or piping. The predominate architectural element of the precast concrete building is the incorporation of a 5 circle open portico on the west elevation to buffer strong west winds and sun from the curtain wall of glass behind. The care in which the house was designed extends to include the landscaping that complements its surroundings visually, functionally and in keeping with the ethic of conservation. In addition to requesting landmark designation, the owner placed a deed restriction to limit interior alterations that would affect the open interior design and solar viability. Sungate is Boulder County’s only modern architecture landmark.