Pacific Northwest Residence

Situated along a narrow saltwater channel, this Pacific Northwest residential compound was designed as a gathering place for a family of four and their extended family nearby. Thoughtfully integrated into its site and surrounding context, the residence defines a series of spaces that support family life while maintaining a restrained architectural presence.

The design was informed by a personal survey of the site by the architects, who studied the land’s contours, vegetation, and views. This intimate knowledge guided the building’s placement within the forest of cedar, hemlock, and Douglas fir, ensuring minimal disruption to the landscape. Arrival is marked by an elevated entry walk, set 10 feet above ground, that threads through dense trees before terminating on axis with a magnificent cedar. Views are oriented north along the channel’s length rather than across it, capturing distant vistas while preserving privacy.

Wood defines the project’s material expression. Cedar siding was chosen for its durability and natural appearance, while the interiors are fully sheathed in vertical-grain Douglas fir panels, dissolving boundaries between inside and out. The entry walk and interior ceilings reveal the structural system, where Douglas fir glulam beams and framing work in concert with exposed steel elements. Clear finishes highlight the natural beauty of the wood while showcasing the craft of construction.

Sustainability measures include advanced glazing, insulation, and a geothermal heat exchange system for efficient heating and cooling. The compound embodies a balance of performance, comfort, and restraint, resulting in a residence that combines technical efficiency with material honesty. Designed as a place for family gathering, it reinforces its integration within the surrounding landscape while maintaining a purposeful architectural presence.