Innovation:
The design for Humbird innovates and sets a precedent for mountain architecture by weaving the heritage of Schweitzer with new and bold forms, materials and techniques. The Schweitzer brand has a 60-year history that over the decades, has been muted. What was once “Idaho cool” had declined into something generic. The classic ski lodge aesthetic is often associated with an abundant use of wood, traditional patterns like plaid, leather, warm lighting, and eclectic accessories. In many ways, Humbird has these elements, but with a fresh, modern twist. The new hotel pays homage to the region's history of big timber and its namesake, the Humbird Lumber Company.

Functionality:
At Humbird, the primary focus was adding story, balancing scale and improving user experience. Design choices in the public spaces are largely focused on creating large-scale meaningful, memorable moments within the architecture - these are experiential spatial elements that become ingrained into the identity of Humbird, like the expansive use of glazing in the glass room, or the custom stencil-work at the reception desk. The scale of the guestrooms is a bit more subtle – with engaging memorable details and organic patterns, whether it’s the close examination of a historic triptych or the unfolding of the custom-designed blanket.

Creativity:
In addition to being inspired by the history of the timber industry in the area, we were also inspired by retro ski culture and its manifestation in fashion and print media throughout the years at Schweitzer. There’s something infectious about the bright colors, geometric patterns, and bold graphics - we wanted to take elements from these motifs and make them fresh and modern.

The interior design integrates art installations, the largest is the corridor wallcovering series - a three-part series of dreamy murals depicting the three major natural elements of Schweitzer - mountain, forest, and lake. These murals set the stage for how the artwork and color palette shift across each floor. The artwork chronicles Schweitzer and Sandpoint then and now. We worked closely with the Bonner County Historical Society to curate a collection of historic imagery, each depicting locals through the eras. Every guest bed has a unique triptych of images, each telling a different story.

Sustainability:
Doug fir CLT was selected for its inherent beauty, sustainability, and structural properties. Our partner, Vaagen Timber, ethically sourced from within 100 miles of the project, greatly reducing the carbon footprint.

Most of the products were sourced from the local community. Feature custom pieces are made by a textile artist based in Boise. We worked with a local woodworker on a reclamation project involving a tree slab (the oldest Doug Fir in Idaho) and a local leatherworker to create custom designed throw pillows.