As mountain guides, Scott Schell and Margaret Wheeler are used to the
upper reaches of the Cascades. Their site in the foothills above
Snoqualmie is not far from work. The house, designed by Johnston
Architects PLLC and built by Tall Tree
Construction, accommodates both professional and practical demands,
but it also fulfills a deep desire to do what is right. The Schell
Wheeler house will soon receive a LEED Silver certification. Blow-down
trees from storms provided the logs that were milled into siding,
fascias and trim. A ground source heat pump, supplemented by solar
water preheating supplies energy to the house. Other strategies are
implemented throughout the house, but the overall character of the two
buildings complete the goal of sustainability: the complex is extremely
livable within its environment. Even on a grey and rainy day this
forest retreat is filled with light.