The design of this residence is generated from an intimate understanding of this site as a microcosm of the Northwest. Located on the shores of Puget Sound, this urban site is believed to once have a small creek running through it. A lush ravine below a dense canopy of firs and cedars now bisects the site, providing a unique opportunity to occupy this carved space by conceptually raising a simple flat slice of the site onto columns. This conceptual slice becomes a sod roof that appears to span from one side of the site to the other, enclosing the space below. In order to pass below the roof, one must descend a staircase through a narrow opening in the sod where the visitor becomes aware of its weight and protection. Two concrete volumes enclose the more private functions of living while the remaining space beneath the sod plane is open and transparent, flowing outward toward the ravine and to views of the Olympic Peninsula beyond. This seamless connection to the surrounding landscape fulfills the mission of the project.

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