Wilkinson Residence

The copper clad roof which runs around the courtyard is turned down to define the entry to into the home.

Words from the architect

The client desired a house that felt as if it were isolated in the forest and that would allow him to hear the songs of birds.

The living spaces are extended out onto a deck which cantilevers out amongst the forest canopy.

The steep slope of the site provided an opportunity to bring the building out into the forest canopy. Entry to the house is made through a small courtyard after walking down a steep driveway. The floor then continues out over the slope as the ground rapidly drops away. By the time the cantilevered deck reaches out amongst the trees, the floor level is some 25 feet above the ground. When stepping through the front door the difference between the damp shaded descent of the driveway and the explosion of bright green light, shed by leaves through every window is obvious.

The upper floors extend out into the forest canopy while the lower private rooms are recessed deep into the structure.

The building uses a combination of western red shingles and copper to define the envelope. Douglas fir beams are used as expressed structural elements within the home.

View toward the kitchen, living room, meditation room and external deck.

The upper floor of the home accommodates the more public functions of the home and does so in an open plan arrangement. The more private spaces such as bedrooms and bathrooms are located downstairs. These rooms are recessed under the building giving them a protective quality.

The meditation room extends out onto the deck providing an enhanced connection with the outdoors.

The study alcove is openly linked to the rest of the house, while also maintaining a distinct connection to the out doors via expansive glass openings.

View from kitchen towards the entry and the fireplace alcove.

The large pivoting entry door is informed by the cylindrical form that runs the length of the main living spaces.

Floor Plans.

Cross Sections.

Site Plan.

Credits

• Text: Andrew T Boyne
• Photographs: Cameron Neilson

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