R+B Chosen for the Rusty Parrot Lodge

Rowland+Broughton Architecture/Urban Design/Interior Design has been chosen as architect for the design and rebuild of the iconic Rusty Parrot Lodge in Jackson, WY. Destroyed by fire on Nov. 18, 2019, the owner-operated lodge has been a stalwart in the local community since 1990.

“While the structure was completely lost, the spirit lives strong,” said owner Ron Harrison, who is leading the rebuild with his son, Brandon. “The design team at Rowland+Broughton understands how important that notion is within a mountain resort community.”


“After a nationwide search, Rowland+Broughton’s deep portfolio proved that they are capable of capturing the residential feel we wanted,” added Brandon. “They have the technical expertise from hotel design experience and the bonus of experience in historic hotel renovations and preservation of Western architecture. The team’s responsiveness to the intent and design guidelines has been impressive.”

An initial design charrette established the direction and program for the rebuild and set the entitlements process into action. Plans for the new 50,500-sq.-ft., three-level structure include 40 individually appointed guestrooms, public areas including a lobby, den, kitchen, restaurant, spa, garden courtyard and patio and underground parking. Incorporating exterior materials such as log and stone will respect the original structure, and merge the surrounding landscape into the design. The rusty parrot sculpture, a beloved mascot, will once again take roost. Pending reconstruction approval in late 2020, reopening is anticipated in the late spring of 2022.

About the project, R+B Principal Sarah Broughton said, “Being entrusted with the opportunity to work with the Harrisons to bring this wonderful, iconic lodge back to the Jackson community is truly an honor. As a team, we acknowledge the importance of recapturing much of the ethos of the original structure. Maintaining distinctive exterior materials, such as rustic log and stone, and giving a nod to previous design details in a new way will ensure that the structure relates to its past as it moves forward as a legacy project. As has been true of the Rusty Parrot experience from the start, there will also be new and interesting opportunities for guests to discover.”

In addition to shared philosophies and design goals, Broughton notes other factors contributing to R+B’s selection for the project. “Our experience with both boutique and high-end luxury hotels, such as the Hotel Jerome in Aspen, CO, and the Limelight Hotel in Ketchum, ID, combined with our custom residential experience, contributed to our selection,“ she said. “And the depth, breadth and experience of our architecture team will allow us to efficiently expedite the design process and meet the owners’ desired timelines as well.”