Inspired by local vernacular architecture, the brick and limestone Cooke Building takes design cues from Driggs, Idaho’s typical early 20th-century commercial buildings. In keeping with the design guidelines that Ward + Blake principal Mitch Blake recommended to the town of Driggs, the building was designed using contextually appropriate materials, massing, and scale to meet the client’s program needs. The client, a native of the Teton Valley, agreed new construction should be compatible with the historic downtown streetscape; to successfully meet his design and budget objectives, architects sourced a limestone plaster to accent the brick work and blend the materials in harmony with the traditional downtown.

While the building’s exterior pays deference to local traditions, the interior is undeniably modern, custom designed to suit the accounting firm tenant. Offices in the 20-by-50-foot, two-story building are accessed off a skewed central corridor and include a full-height basement. The sun-filled entry is naturally lit by a large, second-story skylight and features a custom-designed steel art railing reflecting the client’s outdoor interests. The creative solution resulted in a highly efficient and delightful architectural solution.