Chamonix at Firefly: A Pinnacle of Modern Farmhouse Design
The Chamonix at Firefly is not your typical modern farmhouse; it is a visionary project that has garnered the prestigious Gold Nugget's Home of the Year award. This accolade positions the Chamonix as a benchmark in architectural design, urban planning, and community development, recognized both nationally in the United States and on an international scale.
Crafted by DTJ DESIGN in collaboration with Candlelight Homes, the Chamonix exemplifies a design philosophy that marries Scandinavian aesthetics with a commitment to livability. David Poppleton, Partner and Owner at DTJ DESIGN, explains, “We started with the modern farmhouse— a style beloved for its simplicity and warmth— and pushed it further by incorporating Scandinavian influences.” This fresh interpretation combines natural materials and thoughtful details to create a home that feels modern yet inviting, sophisticated yet warm.
One of the most compelling aspects of Chamonix is the way it integrates high-end design within a production community. Unlike many homes that boast such intricate designs, which are often found in bespoke or boutique neighborhoods, the Chamonix demonstrates that elegant architecture can also thrive in larger scale developments. Rachel Magee, Project Designer, notes that “These kinds of details are rare to find in a production community.” Collaborating closely with Candlelight Homes, the team ensured that every detail was both beautiful and functional, adhering to their collective vision without sacrificing the special characteristics that elevate these homes.
Located in Eagle Mountain, Utah, Firefly is envisioned as a space where communities can reclaim their connection to nature and to one another. The architecture of the homes, including the Chamonix, reflects this ideology. Each design features side courtyards that not only enhance the flow of natural light into the living spaces but also create private outdoor sanctuaries, even in narrow lots. David points out, “Every active side of the house looks into its own courtyard, allowing for incredible daylight and outdoor living without compromising privacy.” Large, strategically placed windows, including those tucked between kitchen cabinets, amplify the relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces.
The Chamonix seamlessly integrates subtle yet thoughtful touches, such as built-in tech drawers, which encourage residents to unplug from their devices and engage with their surroundings and communities. This aligns perfectly with Firefly's overarching mission to foster genuine connections.
Winning the Home of the Year title at the Gold Nugget Awards is more than just a nod from the industry; it signifies recognition on one of the largest stages dedicated to design and development. The award honors projects that not only push creative boundaries but also deliver practical and market-driven solutions. For DTJ DESIGN and Candlelight Homes, this win highlights the possibilities that arise when a builder and a design team share a daring vision and follow through with it. David emphasizes, “Even within the usual constraints of production homes, we focused on creating something meaningful and did not compromise on our standards.” This commitment is what makes the Chamonix resonate with so many.
For those interested in exploring DTJ DESIGN's award-winning projects, additional information can be found at
www.dtjdesign.com.
About Candlelight Homes
Candlelight Homes specializes in constructing vibrant communities throughout Utah, emphasizing timeless architectural designs complemented by parks, trails, and communal spaces that promote connection.
About DTJ DESIGN
DTJ DESIGN, Inc. is a highly regarded architecture, planning, and landscape architecture firm with headquarters in Boulder, Colorado, and additional offices across Austin, Atlanta, and Denver. For over four decades, DTJ has been dedicated to creating innovative, sustainable designs that enhance residential, commercial, and public spaces, shaping areas where people engage, gather, and grow.