Floor-to-Ceiling Windows for Bloomington Ski Chalet

Nestled in the scenic, 1,000-acre Hyland Lake Park Reserve, the Hyland Hills Chalet is a unique venue in Bloomington, Minnesota. From April through September, it offers a beautiful backdrop for weddings, memorial services, corporate events and other occasions. When winter rolls around, Hyland Hills is the place for downhill skiing and snowboarding in the Twin Cities metro area. The original chalet, built in 1974, was old, outdated and overcrowded. After pulling together public funding and bonds, construction began on a new building, which opened in 2015. Designed by Partners and Sirny Architects and built by George F. Cook Construction Company, the new chalet features Pella Reserve picture windows. 

At only 17,000 square feet, the original chalet was too small and overcrowded for Hyland Hills Ski Area, which receives about 160,000 visitors annually. The new 37,000-square-foot chalet more than doubles the size of the original. Given that the old space felt small, dark and crowded, Partners and Sirny Architects designed the new building to feel just the opposite. They turned to our team at Pella of Minnesota to supply custom floor-to-ceiling windows for the space. Expansive walls of windows make the new chalet feel spacious, bright and airy. The large windows accentuate the tall ceilings, filling the building with a sense of openness and grandeur.

With the vision of creating a seamless connection between the interior and exterior spaces, the design team opted for custom fixed frame direct set windows in rectangle and trapezoid shapes. These custom windows overlook the panoramic vistas of the slopes. Natural wood windows seamlessly blend with the surrounding environment, creating a harmonious connection between the indoor and outdoor spaces. Ample natural light further enhances the chalet's sense of tranquility and immersion in nature. The rustic elegance of natural wood complements the cozy atmosphere of this chalet. The warmth and richness of wood grain add character to the interior and exterior, enhancing its traditional alpine aesthetic.

Central to the success of the project was the implementation of a custom-designed steel mull system to support the floor-to-ceiling windows. This structural innovation not only reinforces the integrity of the windows but also enhances their durability and longevity, ensuring that they withstand harsh Minnesota weather for years to come.

The choice of custom windows was not only driven by aesthetic considerations but also by practicality and performance. Conducting independent field tests early in the installation process, the project team confirmed that Pella products and installation systems would exceed project requirements, particularly in resistance and infiltration. This commitment to product performance ensures that the windows not only enhance the chalet's visual appeal but also contribute to its overall comfort and energy efficiency.

The collaborative efforts of Partners and Sirny Architects, George F. Cook Construction Company and Pella of Minnesota culminated in a beautiful project that enhances the overall guest experience at Hyland Hills. Our professional team enjoyed collaborating with other pros to supply a one-of-a-kind solution for this custom project.