designing in the san juan islands
The San Juan Islands are an archipelago located between Washington State, Vancouver Island, and British Columbia, Canada that is home to some of the Pacific Northwest's most breathtaking natural sights.
Our firm has been privileged to work on a multitude of projects in the region over several decades. This post speaks to our long-standing love affair with this region and the work we've had the privilege to create there.
ENVIRONMENT
The islands feature a diverse range of unique biomes, including temperate forests, grasslands, Garry oak savannas, madrona woodlands, and coastal meadows. It is dominated by Douglas fir trees. Our work has always been deferential to these beautiful landscapes. The following section shows some different strategies we've used to celebrate the natural beauty of place while having our own distinctive architectural presence.
CASCADE
Some projects want to embrace the topography they are given. Stepping organically down the hill, the Bailer Hill residence remains firmly rooted to the earth even as it rises high above the ground, creating a dialogue between the built form and the natural terrain.
NESTLE
Most of our projects let their natural setting be the star of the show. Eagle Point Cabin achieves this by nestling into the rugged, coastal grasslands making an unassuming presence with a small footprint and planted roof. It's strategically sited on the wind-swept site to screen neighbors with natural vegetation while opening out to the water view.
HOVER
Certain projects demand breaking free from their surroundings. The Boathouse stands as a threshold between water and land, both anchored into the rocky shoreline and hovering over the water. Replacing a dilapidated structure, it provides upland access to those arriving by boat or seaplane while also providing a dramatic spot for quiet repose or a family gathering.
DISPERSE
Another strategy to integrate a home into the natural surroundings is breaking down a home into discrete elements. Cady Mountain retreat combines the clients' desire for privacy with their desire to experience the landscape by creating three separate forms (sleeping cabin, main house, and guest house) to engage the Oak Tree Savannah.
PERCH
Some sites demand a home take the high ground on a point of prominence. This single-story volume keeps a low profile on this rocky promontory overlook while taking advantage of the stunning views. From the water, the naturally aged gray cedar siding blends into the rocky shore so that the house becomes an outcropping, defined by the dark line of its roof.
COMMUNITY
PBW engages the island communities in big and small ways. In recent news, we're working with the Shaw Island School District to develop affordable housing for their teachers. Construction is slated to start this year!
Did you know we have an office on San Juan Island? It's located right by the Friday Harbor Ferry Terminal on the second floor of the Cannery Landing building. If you look closely you can see our sign from the boat as you arrive! Come say hello - we would love to see you.
We're proud of our body of work in the San Juan Islands, but most of all we're proud of the lasting connections with our satisfied clients who will be able to enjoy their homes for years to come.
