This new residence is located on a pristine 26 acre site
comprised of a mature douglas fir and pacific madrone forest, with occasional
rocky clearings and several small ponds.
The site is ecologically sensitive, with bald eagle nests and trees
prone to blight if disturbed. Further,
soil coverage is minimal over the native basalt, therefore stormwater
management is a serious concern. Our clients desired a work of architecture
that took into consideration these constraints and minimized site impacts while
creating a work of architecture that utilized their favorite materials (wood
and concrete) and connected them intimately with the land and the view.
Our design solution situates the home where the forest gives
way to a large rocky clearing with views to the sea. The structure is ‘wrapped’ around a prominent
outcropping of rock and carefully situated to require a minimum of tree
removal. Strict site access protocols
were put in place for the duration of construction in order to minimize site
disturbance, and the landscape has been carefully restored.