Set on pastoral farmland on San Juan Island, this new ground-up residence was designed with a modern farmhouse sensibility and a deep connection to nature. Rooted in the idea of creating a welcoming home for both large family gatherings and quiet moments for two, the house balances openness and intimacy across its thoughtful layout.
The design centers around a striking view axis that runs through the heart of the home, framed by mature Douglas fir trees. From this anchor point, the house extends into three distinct wings. A central gathering space includes expansive indoor and outdoor living areas. One wing offers accommodations for visiting friends and family, while the other serves as amore private retreat for the owners. These wings can function independently or come together as a cohesive whole, offering flexibility for different seasons of life.
Designed to celebrate the surrounding landscape, the home includes deep sleeping porches, outdoor showers, a covered morning porch, and a large outdoor living and dining area. Each of these spaces invites the outdoors in and reflects the owners’ love of nature and connection to the land. Generous openings with steel-framed folding, sliding, and pocketing doors allow the interior and exterior to blend seamlessly. Deep roof overhangs and covered porches ensure that these spaces can be enjoyed year-round, even in the island’s rainy climate.
Material selections emphasize regional character and enduring beauty. Locally sourced cedar is used throughout for siding and timber framing. Columbia River basalt grounds the home in the geology of the Pacific Northwest, reinforcing a strong sense of place and permanence.
