Park City is well-known today for its luxury ski resorts, vibrant arts scene, and world-class real estate. But tucked within its history lies a unique architectural style that tells the story of a very different era — the A-frame home. Once a popular choice for mountain retreats in the mid-20th century, these distinctive cabins are now at risk of disappearing from Park City’s landscape altogether.
What Are A-Frame Homes?
A-frame homes get their name from their steep, triangular roofline that resembles the letter "A." With sides that slope down to the foundation, they were originally designed to shed heavy snow loads, making them a practical choice for alpine communities like Park City. Their tall windows, open loft spaces, and simple construction made them both functional and inviting for weekend ski getaways.
A Popular Style of the 1950s-70s
Across the U.S., A-frame homes surged in popularity after World War II, particularly in mountain towns. In Park City, they became a symbol of the area’s growing reputation as a ski destination. Affordable to build and easy to maintain, they attracted families and ski enthusiasts who wanted a cozy cabin close to the slopes.
Why They’re at Risk
Today, many of Park City’s original A-frame homes are being replaced by larger, more modern mountain properties. As the real estate market has boomed, the small footprint of an A-frame often cannot compete with the square footage and luxury amenities that buyers now expect. Many A-frames have already been torn down, while others sit neglected, no longer fitting the mold of the city’s high-end housing demand.
Why They Matter
These homes represent more than just a quirky architectural style — they are a reminder of Park City’s transformation from a quiet mountain town into a world-class resort destination. Each surviving A-frame tells a story of simpler ski weekends, the DIY spirit of mid-century homeowners, and the community’s early embrace of mountain recreation.
Preserving Park City’s A-Frame Heritage
While not every A-frame can be saved, bringing awareness to their historical and cultural significance is the first step. Highlighting their place in Park City’s architectural history can help residents, historians, and preservationists make the case for keeping some of these iconic homes standing for future generations.
Park City’s A-frame homes may be at risk, but they remain an important chapter in the city’s story. Remembering and appreciating them ensures that even as Park City continues to grow and evolve, it doesn’t lose sight of the humble, triangular cabins that helped shape its identity.
