This quiet neighborhood sits along Salt Lake City’s eastern bench, just 10 minutes to downtown and near the University of Utah and its hospital and research complex. Many of the homes are older and are being snapped up by those who see the possibilities. Many older professionals live here along with a mix of younger families that have recently moved in. Its location and layout is perfect for those who want to ride a bike to work or school. St. Mary’s offers spectacular views of the Salt Lake Valley and boasts some of Utah’s top schools, including East and Highland High School and Hillside Junior High. Seven of the best ski and snowboard resorts in North America world are only about 30 minutes away. Forbes magazine has ranked Utah the No. 1 state for business four out of the last five years. Salt Lake County is the home of the NBA’s Utah Jazz, Real Salt Lake of the MLS, University of Utah Pac-12 athletics, and was the host of the 2002 Winter Olympic Games.
This home has always been a favorite—quiet from the street, almost secretive in its presence. But once invited in, its architectural story unfolds in brilliant layers. The proportions are impeccable throughout. The main approach is a gesture in symmetry and balance, anchored by a wide path that aligns precisely with the double entry doors. Above, the second story glows like a stretch of sunset horizon, with floor-to-ceiling windows that span the entire length of the home. A veranda cantilevers over stone walls. Inside, a five-foot-wide gallery hall extends from end to end, leading to a perfectly framed, north-facing glass wall that prompts moments of connection with the outdoor landscape.
Originally designed by Jim Christopher, the home already embodied so many of the hallmarks of great design. Through a precise and reverent renovation, the original home has been elevated to its highest potential. The property has been further transformed by Sparano + Mooney, one of Salt Lake′s most innovative architectural firms. Their modern addition in the back-affectionately known as The Cube—sits in quiet conversation with the original structure. A brutalist form of glass and concrete, it exudes calm and composure, its presence both grounding and transcendent. Water reflects against its glass facade from the pool below, in whispering movements, like breath-work. Polished concrete floors join with an exposed concrete wall. Floating stairs rise beside a massive Poliform library wall. The scale and texture are breathtaking. The architectural lines extend to the pool, pool equipment pad, and garden area. A hot tub, sheltered from the hillside by a concrete partition, sits just above the roofline to capture all the sunset and city views.
From the herringbone floors and vintage hardware to the Italian cabinetry, every detail has been considered, crafted, and resolved. This home is a testament to design excellence in every aspect, from every angle, from the original to the new. Perfection is rare in architecture—but sometimes, through intention, vision, and collaboration, it sure comes close.
