COURTYARD HOUSE ON A RIVER
This 2-bedroom, single-story residence is located just outside Seattle in the shadow of Mt. Rainier. Clad in a custom-run Western red cedar rain screen siding system, the 1,600-square-foot home quietly blends into the surrounding forest along the banks of the glacier-fed White River.
An entry courtyard serves as a smooth transition from the outdoors, while also providing light to and views from interior living spaces.
Designed for a husband and wife couple who chose to relocate from Gig Harbor so they could enjoy skiing and mountain biking year-round, the open living area uses large glass walls to create a sense of space and light even on the Northwest’s darkest, rainy days. The exposed architectural-grade glulam beams unify the various rooms under a single roof system, while drawing the eye up through the roof monitor to the trees beyond. Doug-fir #1 columns stained black assist in the support of the roof system while defining a circulation zone between the entry courtyard and living/dining spaces. A steel-clad fireplace mass serves as a central architectural feature, complementing the natural wood interiors while separating the living room from the covered outdoor patio. The exterior is clad entirely in a custom run of lap western red cedar stained black, installed horizontally as well as vertically to provide subtle visual interest.
The owners served as the general contractor and self-performed much of the work to maintain an extremely tight construction budget. With the architect and homeowners/contractors working diligently together throughout the design and construction process, the building was kept as compact as possible, minimizing site disturbance and preserving the lush evergreen landscape. Through thoughtfully planned spaces and views, carefully considered natural lighting, and a warm material palette, the residence emphasizes design over size.
