Nestled in the heart of the Animas Valley, West Dalton Ranch presents an exceptional opportunity to build a custom home among the most stunning scenery in Southwest Colorado. For those looking for both privacy and proximity to town, this development is set at the gateway to the San Juan Mountains yet is only minutes from downtown Durango. Here, you can enjoy peace and quiet at home and still be a short drive away from vibrant local culture, outdoor adventures, and the unique charm of the Durango community.
Team North Star, a leading real estate team in the area, is leading this exciting venture at West Dalton Ranch. They are partnering with well-known homebuilders and architects to make sure each home in the community is elegant, lasting, and inviting. One of these builders is Mantell-Hecathorn Builders, who have been creating lovely homes in Durango for 18 years. Known for his attention to detail and lasting client relationships, President Hunter Mantell-Hecathorn is dedicated to building the home of your dreams with personalized features and expert craftsmanship that stand the test of time.
Crafting the Future at West Dalton Ranch
Hunter Mantell-Hecathorn has an undeniable passion for building high-performance, energy-efficient homes that match the natural beauty of Durango. Originally drawn to the area for its vibrant outdoor scene and strong community, he understands why so many people are eager to call it home and promises that every project meets his high standards for sustainability and quality. In fact, Mantell-Hecathorn Builders is the only firm in Southwest Colorado building 100% of their homes to meet the Department of Energy’s Zero Energy Ready Home standards, a commitment that has earned them numerous accolades, including the prestigious Housing Innovation Award.
As a preferred builder for the West Dalton Ranch project, Hunter is excited about this development’s potential. He envisions a community that caters to many different lifestyles, with lots that offer excellent solar exposure and flexible layouts. These features provide the perfect opportunity for innovative and sustainable living. Hunter notes, “West Dalton Ranch lends itself to almost any design, whether it’s a traditional craftsman or a contemporary mountain home.” This flexibility allows for creative and energy-efficient designs that make the most of the natural surroundings.
Hunter’s work with Team North Star further highlights his commitment to quality and making clients happy. He values the partnership and shared vision of creating a diverse community in the picturesque Animas Valley. “I’ve known Tiare and Team North Star for many years, and it’s always a pleasure working with them. They’re a great team, very knowledgeable, and it’s been great working with them,” he says. With utilities already in place on flat, buildable lots, West Dalton Ranch offers a unique opportunity for people looking to create their dream homes in the Durango area.
“I’ve known Tiare and Team North Star for many years, and it’s always a pleasure working with them. They’re a great team, very knowledgeable, and it’s been great working with them.”
What to Expect at West Dalton Ranch
With breathtaking views of the red cliffs and easy access to outdoor activities, West Dalton Ranch is ideally situated near some of the best experiences Southwest Colorado has to offer. As Hunter puts it, “West Dalton Ranch is pretty special in that it’s really a gateway to the San Juan Mountains. You can access mountain biking and hiking trails out your front door, but also Purgatory and Silverton and all the adventures in the mountains are there at your fingertips.”
Living at West Dalton Ranch will offer a wide range of amenities and community features for diverse lifestyles. Families will appreciate the nearby Animas Valley Elementary School and the quiet, safe streets with low-speed limits, perfect for children playing outside. The development is next door to the Dalton Ranch Golf Club, with a top-rated 18-hole course and a clubhouse for social gatherings. With the Animas River nearby, residents can easily access scenic walks and outdoor activities. For those seeking relaxation, Durango Hot Springs is just across the highway, featuring various pools and on-site dining.
From young families to retirees, the West Dalton Ranch neighborhood promises a welcoming atmosphere where kids can play and neighbors can connect. The thoughtful layout includes paved streets, sidewalks, and walkable paths that link to the greater Dalton Ranch community and local markets, ensuring that everything you need is just a short walk away. “You have views, you have golf, you have a grocery store. You have a lot of things you need right there, and you’re still only 10 minutes away from town,” Hunter explains. This unique combination of amenities and natural beauty makes West Dalton Ranch a truly exceptional place to build your custom home.
The Homebuilding Process with Mantell-Hecathorn Builders
Building a home at West Dalton Ranch is a one-of-a-kind experience, and partnering with Mantell-Hecathorn Builders guarantees your dream home becomes a reality. Hunter and his team bring years of expertise and a deep commitment to sustainability and craftsmanship, delivering a thoughtful approach to every project.
Planning and Design with Sustainability in Mind
The journey begins with the initial planning and design phase. Hunter emphasizes the importance of understanding the client’s vision and needs. “An important part of the process for me is really getting to know a client,” he says. This process starts with walking the lot to get a sense of the space and continues with detailed discussions about architectural style, design preferences, and must-have features. Clients are encouraged to share their ideas and inspirations, which Hunter and his team use to create a customized and detailed plan. Whether you’re looking for a traditional craftsman or a contemporary mountain home, the lots at West Dalton Ranch offer the versatility to accommodate your vision.
Mantell-Hecathorn Builders is renowned for constructing ultra-energy-efficient homes that meet Zero Energy Ready Home standards, so sustainability is at the heart of every design. “All of our homes are built to an energy-efficient standard that makes it very easy to add a solar voltaic panel system,” Hunter explains. Most clients choose to incorporate solar features to take advantage of existing tax credits and local incentives. The designs also maximize the natural lighting and breathtaking views around West Dalton Ranch, often incorporating large windows and glass features that bring the beauty of the outdoors inside. This thoughtful blend of innovative design and sustainability delivers homes that are both beautiful and environmentally responsible.
From Concept to Completion: A Collaborative Process
Building a home with Mantell-Hecathorn Builders is an exciting and engaging process, with personalized attention and creativity at every stage. From conceptualization to final completion, Hunter and his team bring expertise and passion to every project and client. Typically, the timeline from the first meeting to move-in is about nine months to a year, depending on the pace of decision-making and design adjustments. “People can expect a real hands-on approach when working with us. We only do three or four homes a year, so we’re able to really focus on each client’s project from inception to turnover to support after the build,” Hunter shares.
Communication is vital to this collaborative process. Hunter keeps clients informed and involved throughout, with regular meetings both in person and via Zoom, especially for those who aren’t already living in the area. This approach ensures that the final product exceeds the client’s expectations and helps establish solid and lasting relationships. “One of the aspects I enjoy through the process is getting to know each client personally and developing a relationship that, in the end, having spent so much time together, results in a great friendship,” Hunter notes. This dedication to clear communication and collaboration ensures that every step of the homebuilding journey is as stress-free as possible.
“People can expect a real hands-on approach when working with us. We only do three or four homes a year, so we’re able to really focus on each client’s project from inception to turnover to support after the build”
Customization Process
Every home built by Mantell-Hecathorn Builders is a custom project designed for the client’s specific tastes and lifestyle preferences. Hunter and his team are experts at incorporating distinctive features and personal touches that transform a house into a home. “We’ve never built the same home twice,” Hunter says. “A client will come to us with some ideas, and through the process, we will do our best to turn that into a reality and give them a custom home that they love.” Considering every detail, from architectural style to interior finishes, guarantees that the finished home reflects the client’s unique vision.
Currently, Mantell-Hecathorn Builders is in the design phase for a stunning mountain contemporary home at West Dalton Ranch. The clients previously lived in Purgatory but were ready to move to a lower elevation with less snowfall. Their vision includes a 3-bedroom, 4-bath home with expansive glazing to bring the breathtaking views inside. Outdoor spaces are essential and feature a covered exterior porch that flows into a firepit and seating area. The interior includes a custom kitchen fit for a chef, complete with a 48-inch range and a wet bar. This project represents the thoughtful design and attention to detail that Mantell-Hecathorn Builders brings to every home.
Working with Mantell-Hecathorn Builders to construct your custom home at West Dalton Ranch means achieving your dream home while creating a lasting relationship with a team dedicated to making that dream a reality. Each project by the Mantell-Hecathorn team combines unique personal touches with expert craftsmanship, resulting in a truly one-of-a-kind home.
Your Dream Home Awaits at West Dalton Ranch
Building a custom home at West Dalton Ranch offers a unique opportunity to live in one of the most beautiful and conveniently located areas in Southwest Colorado. With the guidance of Team North Star, you can bring your vision to life and create a home that reflects your personal style and meets your needs.
Ready to start your journey? Contact Team North Star today to learn how you can build your dream home at West Dalton Ranch. For more information about Hunter Mantell-Hecathorn and his exceptional work, visit the Mantell-Hecathorn Builders website.