Suncrest Residence: architecture and design on Orca Island

In the idyllic Orcas Island, in Washington, stands a 3000 square foot residence, a sublime example of how architecture can seamlessly integrate with the surrounding natural landscape. Through the skillful use of wood and concrete, Heliotrope Architects have minimized the impact of the Suncrest residence on the site, blending it in complete harmony with the natural context in which it is located.

Design and positioning: a dialogue with the landscape

The house is strategically located where the forest gives way to a wide rocky clearing, offering breathtaking views of the Salish Sea, stretching between the United States and Canada. The structure embraces a prominent rocky outcrop, positioning itself to minimize tree removal. This approach by Heliotrope Architects allows the residence to maintain a strong connection with the surrounding forest, while also offering each room a privileged view of the sea.

Architecture and materials: an aesthetic in harmony with nature

The long and narrow footprint of the house, together with its low curved shape, allows the building to nestle into the landscape, almost emphasizing a visual and material continuity with the environment. The selection of materials—wood, cement, zinc, steel and glass—was guided by the desire to harmonize the structure with the colors and textures of the natural context.

The palette of materials was chosen to harmonize with the colorsEng and textures of the surrounding nature and consists of wood, concrete, zinc, steel and glass. The interiors act as a neutral backdrop for the art found throughout the house, much of which is the work of the owner

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Heliotrope Architects

5140 Ballard Ave NW, Seattle, WA 98107, United States