The design diagram is a series of four parallel masonry walls, infilled with a timber frame structure. Those walls facing the view are glass, and the roof structure is comprised of exposed wood beams and rafters. The two center masonry walls, which contain the pathway from the parking area to the lower structure splits the house approximately in half, with public spaces to the north and private spaces to the south.

This house is a study of opposites. The density and weight of the masonry walls contrasted to the light wood and glass structure held between.

From the access road one moves through a flat, dense zone of evergreen trees. Upon exiting the trees, the light filled site starts to gently slope to the high bank paralleling the water below. Given the limited width of the site we split the home into two structures. Given the spectacular views, we endeavored to give all the spaces views of the islands beyond. As such, we divided the program into two separate structures. The lower structure, tucked into the hillside, contained the open living area and master suite. The upper structure contained the guest suite and private offices. The lower structure was partially buried into the hillside to allow for unobstructed views from the upper structure. The roofs of both structures have been planted to minimize the impact of the new home on the site.

Our clients own high bank view property in the San Juan Islands. Looking towards retirement, we were asked to investigate a number of different home designs for a full time residence. This design is one of five schemes presented. Our clients asked for a home that would include an open living concept (cooking, eating, entertaining) and Master Bedroom suite that took full advantage of the site’s views to the southwest. In addition we were to accommodate two private offices, plus a guest suite for family and friends.