Lauren Santo Domingo’s Jackson Hole ski retreat blends rustic charm with modern luxury, reflecting her sophisticated, no-cliché approach to design.

When fashion icon Lauren Santo Domingo set out to design her dream ski retreat in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, she had one non-negotiable rule: no clichés. Inspired by her love for sophisticated modernism and her keen eye for design, Lauren Santo Domingo crafted a space that blends the rustic charm of the mountains with a contemporary, luxurious aesthetic.

The result is a home that feels both grounded in nature and elevated in style—a perfect reflection of Santo Domingo’s distinctive approach to design.

Breaking Away from Tradition

Lauren Santo Domingo, co-founder of an online fashion emporium and an influential figure in the world of design, was determined to create a home that would stand apart from the usual ski lodge tropes. “No fur, no bison heads, no stone mantles, no cowboy hats, no fluffy rugs,” she insists. Instead, her vision was one of modern rusticity—a home that felt at once timeless and fresh, where raw materials met high design in a harmonious blend.

Her journey began with a rejection of the typical ski lodge aesthetic. Jackson Hole, known for its rugged terrain and legendary ski slopes, was far from the flashy après-ski scenes of other resort towns. Santo Domingo and her husband envisioned a chalet that mirrored the raw beauty of the landscape without falling into the trap of traditional “mountain chic.” The challenge was to take what is quintessentially rustic—the natural materials like wood, stone, and leather—and give them a sleek, modern twist.

The Visionary Collaboration

To bring this dream to life, Lauren Santo Domingo enlisted the help of a designer who shared her refined sensibilities: Andre Mellone. Known for his ability to create inviting, luxurious spaces that embrace natural elements, Mellone was the perfect collaborator. Together, they set out to blend modern design with the ruggedness of mountain life.

From their very first meeting, it was clear that they were in sync. Santo Domingo’s deep knowledge of design, combined with her vast visual library, impressed Mellone. She came to their initial design session with a Pinterest board organized into three distinct themes: early 20th-century Viennese architecture, midcentury modernism from Europe and Brazil, and the work of Italian female designers from the 1970s. With such a clear and informed vision, it was easy for Mellone to understand what Lauren Santo Domingo wanted—and how to make it a reality.

Their collaboration became a dance of balancing materials, textures, and colors. Santo Domingo’s impeccable taste, honed from years in the fashion world, guided much of the project. Her fearless approach to pairing unexpected colors and mixing diverse materials helped shape the home’s unique identity. She wasn’t afraid to push boundaries, creating spaces that felt both contemporary and deeply connected to nature.

Color Palette and Materials: A Nod to Nature

One of the most striking features of Lauren Santo Domingo’s chalet is its color palette—deep, earthy tones inspired by the surrounding landscape. Santo Domingo’s design philosophy emphasized a sense of tranquility and connection to nature, and this is reflected in every choice. The home is awash in muted, organic hues, from the warm browns of the custom-stained wood paneling to the soft greys and greens of the upholstery. These natural shades evoke the surrounding forest and mountains, creating a seamless integration between the indoors and the wild beauty of the outside world.

But it’s not just about the colors themselves: it’s about how they’re used. In the main living area, a modernist chimney built from simple, utilitarian bricks forms the focal point of the room, its earthy red tones offset by sleek, contemporary furnishings. The walls, painted in soft whites and warm neutrals, provide the perfect backdrop for artwork and vintage furniture, letting each piece stand out while maintaining the space’s calm, unified vibe.

The use of wood is another key element in this design. Rather than covering it up or turning it into a rustic cliché, Lauren Santo Domingo and Mellone embraced the beauty of raw, natural wood. Custom millwork in the form of built-in benches and cabinets showcases the material’s inherent warmth and texture. Meanwhile, handcrafted wood paneling—carefully sanded and painted by hand—adds a bespoke touch that makes the home feel uniquely personal. Every piece of wood was thoughtfully chosen and designed to integrate seamlessly into the larger vision of the space.

Textures and Finishes: Luxurious Yet Functional

Lauren Santo Domingo’s design also includes a thoughtful mix of textures and finishes, blending the natural with the luxurious in a way that makes the home both functional and beautiful. In the family room, vintage leather furniture is paired with soft wool and plush fabrics, creating a space that invites relaxation while maintaining a sense of sophistication. The upholstery in shades of Merlot, chosen for its richness, adds warmth and depth to the room, contrasting perfectly with the darker wood tones and polished metals.

The kitchen is another example of this balanced approach. Custom cabinetry crafted from hand-stained wood complements the smooth, polished surfaces of marble countertops, creating an environment that feels both high-end and practical. The 1970s-inspired barstools, with their clean lines and utilitarian look, add a touch of retro flair to the otherwise minimalist space.

The use of luxurious materials extends to the bedrooms and bathrooms as well. In the master suite, a bespoke bed sits beneath a striking piece of modern art, while soft velvet and rich wood tones evoke a sense of calm and elegance. The bathrooms feature natural stone tiles in muted greens and earth tones, further enhancing the serene, nature-inspired atmosphere.

A Space That Feels Like Home

What makes this ski retreat truly special is its ability to feel both luxurious and lived-in. Lauren Santo Domingo and Mellone were determined to create a space that felt like home, a place where comfort and style could coexist. The materials were chosen not just for their beauty, but for their durability—ensuring that the home would continue to feel welcoming and functional, even after countless ski trips and family gatherings.

In the end, the chalet is a testament to Lauren Santo Domingo’s design philosophy—a philosophy rooted in personal expression, natural beauty, and a commitment to creating spaces that are both visually stunning and deeply connected to their environment. It’s a place where the ruggedness of the mountains meets the refinement of modern design, resulting in a home that is as timeless as the landscape that surrounds it.

Create Your Own Visionary Retreat

Lauren Santo Domingo’s Jackson Hole chalet serves as a stunning example of how thoughtful design can transform a space into a sanctuary. If you’re inspired by the blend of natural beauty, modern aesthetics, and luxurious comfort found in this retreat, consider exploring HOMMÉS Studio’s curated collection of home furnishings. From sculptural furniture pieces to meticulously designed accessories, HOMMÉS Studio offers a range of designs that can help you bring your vision of a chic, timeless space to life—just like Lauren Santo Domingo’s dream ski retreat.

Let your home reflect your personal style and create a sanctuary that harmonizes with both the natural world and modern living. Visit HOMMÉS Studio today and start your own design journey!