ALTHOUGH THE FOUR Seasons chain draws its moniker from the calendar year, its year-old high-end addition to the increasingly crowded Whistler Village is unabashedly forged by the elements. The nine-story resort nestled, at the base of Blackcomb Mountain, doesn’t so much stray from the strict West Coast architecture of the entire base Village as it revels in it, polishing each detail until it shines like an exquisite hot rock in the resort’s spa.

The architecture is a study in understated elegance and the creation of Vancouver architects Burrowes Huggins, whose use of the Arts and Crafts movement’s influences (and its emphasis on the highest standard of craftsmanship) is everywhere. 

But the true dedication to local design and materials is palpable once you walk through the medieval carved wooden door. San Francisco design firm Brayon & Hughes embraced a rustic modern aesthetic—where strong lines are softened and warmed through strategic use of the natural world indoors. The result is as cozy as it is overwhelming for first-time visitors strolling up to the strong, wide, minimal dark wood front desk, all the while resisting the pull of the wood-burning fireplace that anchors the lobby and begs you to plop down with a dark roast and the weekend paper.

The rooms are an extension of the rustic chic—a mélange of dark ochre, maroon, blues, earthy greens and chocolate hues. But never is the richness overbearing, perhaps as a result of the strong, basic lines, high ceilings and the elemental, almost utilitarian styling. Warm cherry-stained millwork, limestone floors, quartzite stone bath walls and wood and gas-burning fireplaces are reminiscent of your cottage if designed by Mother Nature with a platinum card. 

Large windows in both the bedroom and living room bring the view to you and the walkout balcony (complete with a table for two) lets you step into the outdoors without ever leaving the heat of your fireplace. 

But you won’t linger long indoors.

A large outdoor pool is surrounded with evergreen shrubs, cedar bridges, tumbled rocks and walkways providing easy access to and from the pool area. Several whirlpools and numerous chaise lounge chairs encourage guests to enjoy the property, or succumb to the temptation of the looming coastal forest just beyond the palace gates.

Rates begin at $395; suites from $3,200.

fourseasons.com/whistler