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Overview Details

Sculpting a Four-Season Mountain Destination

The Deer Valley East Village project represented a complex landscape architectural challenge that demanded an unprecedented level of strategic design and environmental integration. Our team at Paragon Land Pros was tasked with transforming 3,700 acres of mountain terrain into a four-season destination that would not only complement the existing Deer Valley Resort but dramatically expand its capabilities and appeal. This required a holistic approach that considered ecological preservation, recreational infrastructure, and the delicate balance between human-designed spaces and the natural mountain environment.

Our initial phase focused on comprehensive terrain analysis, mapping out the intricate relationships between the new ski areas, the Wasatch Mountains, and the Jordanelle Reservoir. We developed a landscape strategy that would support the resort's ambitious expansion, including 16 new chairlifts and four new mountain peaks. This involved sophisticated grading techniques, strategic trail development, and a native plant restoration plan that would minimize environmental impact while creating visually stunning and functional spaces. Our design team worked closely with resort engineers to ensure that each landscape intervention served multiple purposes—supporting recreation, managing water runoff, preserving wildlife corridors, and creating seamless transitions between developed and natural areas.

The summer and winter landscape designs required distinctly different approaches, which we solved through a layered, adaptive design methodology. For winter, we created ski runs and lift access points that would integrate naturally with the existing mountain topography, using native boulder placements and carefully planned vegetation to minimize erosion and provide visual interest. In the summer months, we transformed the same terrain into a network of hiking and mountain biking trails, designing rest areas, scenic overlooks, and ecological buffer zones that would support both recreational use and local ecosystem health. Our team incorporated sustainable drainage systems, native plantings, and strategic hardscaping to create a landscape that feels both intentional and organic.

Central to our design was the creation of the tiered central plaza and ice ribbon—a landscape architectural feature that would serve as the heart of the East Village. We approached this space as more than just a functional area, but as a dynamic environment that would foster community interaction and highlight the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains. Strategic tree placement, native stonework, and carefully considered elevation changes create a space that feels both intimate and expansive. By prioritizing views, creating multiple activity zones, and ensuring accessibility, we've designed a landscape that transforms the Deer Valley East Village from a mere ski resort expansion into a comprehensive mountain lifestyle destination.

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