Aspen Center for Environmental Studies will preserve core and character of original building
Chris Lane is well aware of the angst felt by many longtime locals over the wholesale changes sweeping the area, so it is with great care and respect that the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies CEO is overseeing the remodel of the historic Toklat Wilderness Lodge.
Contractors broke ground Tuesday on an extensive renovation of the facility in upper Castle Creek Valley. The core of the historic structure, completed by Stuart and Isabel Mace in 1949, will be preserved. Painstaking care has been taken to salvage everything from old timbers at the center of the structure to door hinges created by the late master blacksmith Francis Whitaker.
A greenhouse and other additions made over the decades by the Maces will be torn down. One of the first additions the Maces made will be preserved.