Cushing Terrell Selected to Design First 30 Cold Smoke Ownership Homes
The architect selection advances design for the first phase of Big Sky Community Housing Trust’s 125-homeownership neighborhood.
Big Sky Community Housing Trust has selected Cushing Terrell as its architecture partner to lead the design services for the first 30 homes planned in the Cold Smoke homeownership neighborhood in Big Sky, Montana. The selection follows a competitive request-for-proposals process and finalist review. The initial design phase will advance the project through schematic design for a mix of two-, three- and four-bedroom attached and detached homes.
The Housing Trust will retain ownership of the land and sell the homes through its community land trust. Permanent deed restrictions will support local occupancy, establish income qualifications aligned with the local workforce, keep the homes affordable, and prohibit short-term rentals.
David O’Connor, Executive Director, Big Sky Community Housing Trust
The 125 ownership homes are part of a planned 389-home community that will also include 264 apartments for rent or ownership. At full buildout, Cold Smoke is expected to provide stable, affordable homes for 1,000 community members, strengthening Big Sky’s ability to care for the people who care for it.
“We’re so excited to bring the Cushing Terrell team on board,” said David O’Connor, Executive Director of Big Sky Community Housing Trust. “Their understanding of building in Big Sky and their continued dedication to building affordable homes in mountain towns make them the perfect partner for the Cold Smoke neighborhood.”
With infrastructure construction underway, the selection moves the ownership portion of Cold Smoke into preliminary design. Vertical construction is currently targeted to begin in late 2027, with the first home sales anticipated in 2029. Project timelines remain subject to change.
“We’re profoundly grateful to be part of this impactful endeavor to provide high-quality, attainable housing for the people who live and work in Big Sky and who make it the remarkable community it is,” said Randy Rhoads, Director of Affordable Housing for Cushing Terrell. “This project will create a lasting impact for generations to come.”
Randy Rhoads, Director of Affordable Housing, Cushing Terrell
About Cushing Terrell
Cushing Terrell was founded in 1938 on the belief that integrating architecture, engineering, and design opens the doors for deepened relationships and enhanced creativity. This foundation continues to define the firm and its multidisciplinary team today. Driven by empathy, the team works to design systems and spaces that help people live their best lives and enjoy healthy, sustainable built environments. With more than 600 team members spanning 30-plus disciplines and expertise across the commercial, education, government, healthcare, infrastructure, residential, and retail markets, the firm has offices in Colorado, Idaho, Louisiana, Minnesota, Montana, Oregon, Texas, and Washington. For more information about Cushing Terrell, visit cushingterrell.com.
About Big Sky Community Housing Trust
Big Sky Community Housing Trust creates and preserves homes for people who live and work in Big Sky. Since becoming an independent nonprofit in 2020, the Housing Trust has helped more than 600 residents through housing developments and programs. Learn more at bigskyhousingtrust.org/cold-smoke.
