Project Images
Location
Decatur Island, Washington
Awards
1987 Sunset Magazine Honor Award
1985 AIA Seattle Chapter Honor Award
1985 People's Choice Award
Gorton/Bounds Residence
The site, a 100' diameter circle on a steep forest clearing,
is part of a planned island development where special care has
been taken to isolate each circular property and take advantage
of the terrain. All construction materials were barged to the
site.
Compactness, economy and a desire to feel open to the spectacular
views were paramount considerations expressed by the family. The
600 s.f. structure contrasts between a compact sleeping core and
an open roof structure containing living and dining space. The
7'-6" core acts as a stiffener. In contrast to the enclosed core,
the living and dining space feels expansive, opening out toward
the views, under a roof canopy of heavy timber beams.
The enclosure is completed by an infill system of wood framed
double-glazed roll-up garage door sections turned on end. This
very inexpensive system utilizes many full height operable panels
for natural ventilation and is set back 5 feet under the roof
overhang. Three porch areas connected by stairs also are protected
by the roof, while a circular projecting deck cantilevers out
over the steep site.