This single-family residence, spanning 1,650 square feet (approximately 153.29 square meters), along with an adjacent 550 square foot (approximately 51.09 square meters) guesthouse, was designed to fulfill the owner’s deep desire to live immersed in nature. The site for the private residence was selected by the owner in collaboration with architect Jim Cutler of Cutler Anderson Architects. They chose a location within the owner’s 88-acre (approximately 0.35 square kilometers) vineyard that features dense vegetation unsuitable for grape cultivation but lies adjacent to an artificial pond.
The architect sought to seamlessly integrate the pond with the residence, providing homeowners with an ongoing connection to nature from every vantage point near the water. To achieve this, Douglas Fir and Cor-Ten steel were selected as primary materials for a small bridge that crosses the pond to the north, linking to the opposite bank. The pond itself was expanded and its boundaries softened to complement the shape of the residence.
The site layout was thoughtfully planned to enhance the visitor experience. Guests park their vehicles about 150 feet (approximately 45 meters) away, then walk through a forested path, cross the small bridge over a pond’s corner, and arrive at the residence’s main entrance. The residence’s expansive pond-facing views offer a tranquil retreat, designed to leave a lasting impression on visitors.
The residence features a simple steel frame structure topped with a wooden roof. The interior layout includes a kitchen, living room, dining room, and master bedroom. An entrance inside the house connects the interior space directly to the garage. For the convenience of guests, a covered outdoor walkway links the guesthouse to the main residence, facilitating easy movement within the property.
To improve the quality of indoor living, Cardinal LoE 272 glass was installed on the south side of the residence, enhancing natural light and warmth. Additionally, underfloor heating is provided throughout the home. All wood and steel materials were locally sourced, and the courtyard landscaping features native wild plants and trees, preserving the natural environment.
The residents frequently observe a rich variety of wildlife, including dragonflies, crayfish, rainbow trout, bats, Cedar waxwings, blue herons, wood ducks, eagles, frogs, salamanders, possums, deer, raccoons, and coyotes.
Design Drawings:
▲ General Layout Plan
▲ Elevation View
▲ Sectional View
▲ Detailed Drawing
Project Information:
Architectural Firm: Cutler Anderson Architects
Location: Newberg, United States
Category: Independent Residential Building
Design Team: James Cutler, Bruce Anderson, Meghan Griswold
Building Area: 1,650.0 m²
Year Completed: 2013
Photographer: Jeremy Bittermann
Suppliers: Pacific Wood Works, TechLighting, Restoration Hardware, True Line Steel
General Contractor: R & H Construction
Structural Engineer: Madden & Baughman Engineering
Landscape Designer: PLAY Studio
Geotechnical Consultant: Carlson Geotechnical
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