The sheer beauty and majesty that typifies the Western Montana landscape is one of rugged mountains, open meadows, rumbling creeks and a sense of peace like no other place on earth, capturing the hearts and the imaginations of countless souls worldwide for generations, and rightfully so. One needn’t drive further than 10 or so miles from Missoula to find yourself on the not-so-beaten path of the scenic Lolo Creek Valley, and then slipping away discretely, quietly into the Sleeman Creek corridor to find yourself in a most magical setting of rolling meadows and pine-studded, mountainous backdrops on all sides. Thoughtfully conceived and artfully achieved, this c.1991 Earth-Shelter, Passive Solar offering, located at 11000 Sleeman Creek Road, takes unabashed advantage of its 3.08 Acre setting, not only with regards to views, but also utilizing the Southern slope to embrace the residence for year-round temperature comfort, while the myriad of windows allow in abundant, ambient light. It’s only fitting, given its wilderness location, that the introduction sequence to the grounds of this atypical abode boasts an array of native grasses, impossibly tall Ponderosa and Douglas Fir Pines, open meadowlands, a fenced in orchard of Macintosoh Apple and Pear Trees, an upper-tiered, enclosed and productive garden, and gently sloped pathways of flagstone rock to guide you to the entrance of this most distinctive abode. It is readily apparent that a great deal of thought went into the design and the crafting of this unique and artful residence, making abundant use of locally sourced-materials, well-placed Clarestory Windows, that when opened can allow for the cool mountain breezes flow into the interior, and in the Winter, allow for full solar impact. The Timberframe design was intentional, employing traditional craftsmanship with Dovetail Joinery, rough-sawn beams, Tongue and Groove paneling and unique wood accents throughout each level. Anchoring the north end of the main level there is a large, inviting room that’s currently utilized a secondary living space, but with its abundance of windows to the West, not to mention the stunning views, it could be adapted well to be used as a Home Library, Art/Writing Studio, Excercise Room and more! The true heartbeat of the home is found within the central corridor that boasts a cozy and inviting Sunken Living Room with an open viewshed to the Dining and Kitchen regions. Tongue and Groove paneled and Wood Beam accents in the Kitchen add an inviting and rustic touch, while the melange of wood, tile and granite counters, incorporated wtih the open shelving, add to this artful and inviting region. Ensconced behand a whimsical, antique office door awaits the Laundry Room, with its array of shelving for organized storage, while a well-used, ridiculously large Home Shop is tucked away discreetly beyond this space. The retreatable regions of the residence are housed on the second floor, allowing for the open loft above the Living Room to serve as not only as the perfect setting for a Home Office, but right around the corner at the top of the stairs, you’ll find a great place, playing host to a Child’s creative playtime space. A well-laid out, En Suite Primary Bedroom is essential and with the inclusion of a Walk-In closet and roomy private Bath, this is the space to claim as your own! Deftly tucked behind a non-descript door you’ll find the well-loved, well-used Dry Sauna, with a fully remodeled Bathroom right across the hall. The larger of the two secondary bedrooms boasts a Bayed Window, distinctive floating shelving and ample closet space. Private and cozy, the third bedroom , while not large in scope, is every bit as inviting as its counterparts. Carefully chosen Pine and Fir flooring, along with a smattering of Larch, dominating the upper level, the main level of the home is a handsome display of rugged cement and wood-framing, with both levels benefitting from radiant floor heat. A noteworthy steward of this forested setting, the current owner has carefully tended to the natural landscape, ensuring its firewise properties of proper thinning and management. He’s also smart enough to know where to place a hammock strung between two strong pines, falling asleep to the sound of the breeze in the canopy and to the lullaby of the birds chirping on nearby branches. A carefully placed Picnic Table up on the hillside, with it’s glorious views, makes for a mighty fine, outdoor dining room, while the Open-Air, covered Gazebo lends itself nicely to outdoor get togethers. At the end of the day, stroll down the well-established Firepit, pull up a wood stump, open the beverage of your choice and enjoy the company of good friends and family on into the evening, swapping lies, lore and the music of life. Whether you were born and raised here, or just recently came to your senses and haven chosen to do so, you’ll appreciate the sheer beauty and majesty that typifies the Western Montana landscape; one of rugged mountains, open meadows, rumbling creeks and a sense of peace like no other place on earth, and with no other place quite as special as 11000 Sleeman Creek Road in Lolo, Montana.
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