As mountain guides, the owners are used to the upper reaches of the Cascades, and their site in the foothills above Snoqualmie is not far from work. The house, designed by Johnston Architects and built by Tall Tree Construction, accommodates both professional and practical demands, fulfilling a deep desire by the clients to do what is right.

An ecologically sensitive approach and features helped the home achieve a LEED Silver Certification. Blown-down trees from previous storms provided the logs that were milled into siding, fascias and trim. A ground source heat pump, supplemented by solar water preheating, supplies energy to the house. Additional strategies implemented throughout the home contribute to the overall sustainable character of the two buildings: the complex is extremely livable within its environment. Even on a grey and rainy day this forest retreat is filled with light.

LOCATION Snoqualmie, WA
AREA 2,900 SF
COMPLETED 2009
PHOTOGRAPHY Will Austin