This spacious family house is located in a forested setting on the shores of Puget Sound. Natural materials and a reverence for the site were major design concerns.
The design program for this waterfront house for an active family of four was centered around classic northwest themes including access and control of natural light, water and mountain views, and a setting of tall cedars and firs. We set out to create a house that expressed the ethos of the arts and crafts movement, but in a clearly contemporary way, using materials of our time. The design also blends kindred influences from the understated, wood-based modernism of Scandinavia. Privacy was important because neighboring houses are quite close on either side. The plan follows the contours of the site. High quality windows and deep overhangs are a response to the strong southwest windstorms and harsh afternoon sunlight.
The owners encouraged a mindful use of materials throughout the space, including recycled fir columns and beams with steel connections, natural woods, wood windows, and hand troweled concrete finish on floors and countertops. Low V.O.C. paints, finishes, and exterior stains were used. Weathered cascade granite and bluestone were used to set off the structure, which is comprised entirely of wood products.
Bainbridge Island, Washington - 2001