Tempted Brownstones
Longmont, Colorado
Tempted Brownstones is a contemporary interpretation of the classic urban brownstone, thoughtfully designed as a collection of three connected townhomes within the walkable fabric of Prospect New Town. Situated on narrow 25-foot-wide infill lots adjacent to the existing Tempered Ways Townhome, the project reimagines traditional brownstone living through a modern architectural lens while reinforcing the neighborhood’s pedestrian-oriented character and strong connection to shared green space.
The project consists of three individually expressed residences each distinguished by a unique brick palette inspired by natural mineral and clay pigments. Oxide references the deep warmth of traditional iron-rich red brick, Alabaster introduces a refined white masonry expression, and Sienna offers a richer earthy clay tone. While united through proportion, materiality, and rhythm, each residence maintains its own architectural identity and scale within the larger composition.
Two units are conceived as mirrored forms joined beneath a shared roof composition, creating a strong symmetrical presence along the streetscape. Rising vertically to maximize livable square footage on constrained urban lots, both residences incorporate rooftop decks that capture expansive mountain views while extending outdoor living opportunities beyond the limited ground plane. In contrast, the other unit was intentionally designed as a smaller yet distinct companion structure, carefully scaled and articulated to maintain visual balance alongside the taller adjoining homes.
The architecture emphasizes openness, light, and connectivity. Each residence is organized along a clear front-to-back spatial axis that visually and physically links the public greenbelt frontage to private internal courtyards located directly off the kitchen and dining spaces. These courtyards become intimate outdoor rooms that blur the threshold between interior and exterior living while bringing daylight deep into the homes.
A defining architectural feature throughout the project is the sculptural stair sequence that vertically connects each level and reinforces the sense of openness within the narrow floorplates. Units 901 and 903 further incorporate private elevators to support age-in-place living and provide convenient access to all levels, including the rooftop decks and accessory dwelling units located above the garages.
Materiality and detailing balance contemporary refinement with the timeless permanence associated with traditional masonry architecture. Expansive black-framed windows, dark metal accents, textured brick facades, and warm wood elements create a layered and sophisticated palette that feels both modern and contextual. Carefully integrated rooftop pergolas, elevated terraces, inviting porches, and landscaped front setbacks reinforce the project’s emphasis on outdoor gathering and neighborhood engagement.
Beyond aesthetics, the project was designed with a strong focus on sustainability, performance, and long-term livability. All three residences comply with the 2021 IECC energy code and incorporate high-performance wall assemblies, advanced insulation systems, energy-efficient glazing, heat pump mechanical systems, ERVs, LED lighting, low infiltration rates, and energy-conscious appliances. Together, these systems create highly efficient homes that support comfort, durability, and reduced environmental impact while maintaining the openness and transparency central to the design vision.
Tempted Brownstones represents a contemporary evolution of urban residential living—one that balances density with livability, individuality with cohesion, and modern design with enduring architectural character.
