R O S L Y N
Site: The site was selected for its extraordinary views of lake and mountains, as well as its convenient proximity to the city. Located in the foothills of the Cascades, above pristine Lake Cle Elum, Seattle is a mere ninety minutes away. The terrain is sloping woodland with a carpet of evergreen forest stretching to the lakeshore. A smattering of taller firs frame views from the expanse of west facing glass, providing scale and context as the site slopes rapidly away from the house.
Spaces: The main floor contains all family functions, with sleeping quarters tucked into the south and common and utility areas to the north, with all opening to the western views. The lofts provide overflow bunking for guests, a quiet place to get away and read a book or just take in the dramatic views from a higher angle. The floor plan is very open with few partition walls, tremendous levels of natural light, and a continuous link to the landscape beyond. Materials: Siding and roofing materials were chosen for economy, low maintenance, and relative non-combustibility. The roofs are standing seam metal with a clear finish. The siding, acting as a rain-screen, varies from corrugated aluminum, to cementitious “Hardie” panels, to recycled snow fencing that carries the rich patina of time and exposure. Interior finishes are simple. The floors are clear sealed concrete with radiant heat over an insulated slab-on-grade. Walls vary from smooth finished wall board, to face nailed plywood, interspersed with screens and slat walls of clear fir. Windows and doors continue the natural warmth of Douglas fir. Ceilings are wood decking over exposed structural beams.
Systems: Heating system is hot water radiant fueled by a geothermal source, with underground tanks that maintain a minimum water temperature of 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Thermostats monitor interior and exterior temperatures, adjusting for solar gain to maintain a consistent interior temperature.