In a complete departure from the second-homeowner focused golf courses and trophy homes sprouting almost daily in picturesque Teton Valley, Idaho, photographer-turned-developer Gabe Rogel has initiated a true community-oriented development.

Red Barn is a new 70 lot neighborhood that prioritizes a sustainable, thoughtful approach and affordable pricing. Located on a lush 80 acres only five blocks from downtown Driggs, Red Barn sustainability elements include:
• An in-town location to reduce automobile dependence
• Restricting the building envelope to 50% of total acreage
• Recycling the building materials of the 10 existing structures on the property
• Passive solar lot layouts and home designs
• Green covenants that ensure very energy efficient homes as well as the use of sustainable building materials
• Donation 1% of revenues to environmental organizations through 1% for the Planet

In protecting half of the acreage, Rogel has preserved a corridor along Teton Creek, which flows through middle of the property, and the habitat of multiple wildlife species and mature trees. To maintain efficient but unique home design, Rogel is currently working with architects on many house plans rooted in green building principles. Typically representing $10 to $20K in costs, these plans will be provided at no charge to land owners.

With a focus on low-impact design, Harmony Design and Engineering have been tapped to serve as the planning and engineering for Red Barn. Harmony Design and Rogel recently presented successfully to the Driggs Planning & Zoning Commission, prompting P&Z Administrator Doug Self to respond: “This is the development we’ve been waiting for.”

Rogel has gained an appreciation for thoughtful development having seen its negative impact on the favorite natural environments of his youth, and through the camera lens as an established commercial and adventure travel photographer for organizations including Patagonia, Men’s Journal, Marmot, Outside Magazine, REI and National Geographic Magazine. Red Barn was born of his desire to create a place where he would want to live.

“I found this parcel of land about three years ago, and knew that I wanted to live there,” Rogel said. “I couldn’t afford and didn’t need 80 acres of land, so I started researching the viability of a Traditional Neighborhood Development. It had to be a development that was in accordance with my own sustainable beliefs, as well as one that actually helped benefit my peers in this valley, particularly those who are looking for responsible and affordable homeownership.”

Located only twenty miles from Grand Targhee Ski Resort, Red Barn will also feature a five acre community park, a community garden and a pond for winter ice skating and hockey. Rogel is currently working with Teton Valley Trails and Pathways to incorporate a bike path that will connect a large portion of the current valley pathways system.