Birdsong Farm

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 runsthrough the heart of the home, framed by mature Douglas fir trees. From thisanchor point, the house extends into three distinct wings. A central gatheringspace includes expansive indoor and outdoor living areas. One wing offersaccommodations for visiting friends and family, while the other serves as amore private retreat for the owners. These wings can function independently orcome together as a cohesive whole, offering flexibility for different seasonsof life.

Designed to celebrate the surrounding landscape, the homeincludes deep sleeping porches, outdoor showers, a covered morning porch, and alarge outdoor living and dining area. Each of these spaces invites the outdoorsin and reflects the owners’ love of nature and connection to the land. Generousopenings with steel-framed folding, sliding, and pocketing doors allow theinterior and exterior to blend seamlessly. Deep roof overhangs and coveredporches ensure that these spaces can be enjoyed year-round, even in theisland’s rainy climate.

Material selections emphasize regional character andenduring beauty. Locally sourced cedar is used throughout for siding and timberframing. Columbia River basalt grounds the home in the geology of the PacificNorthwest, reinforcing a strong sense of place and permanence.