Roundy Residence - Whidbey Island
This 3,200-square-foot home for an active family of four sits on a knoll above
historic Ebey's Prairie, with unobstructed views out over the Straight
of Juan de Fuca and up the coast. The use of natural bleached shingled siding and the simple rectangular form pays homage to the indigenous farmhouses, and the building adheres to architectural guidelines set by the local historic review committee. The simple shape creates a modern living area with flowing spaces defined by free-standing, naturally finished, full height, maple storage cabinets. Full height windows on both levels of the west elevation maximize views of the Sound and Ebey's Landing. The sides of the house can be opened up in summer to take full advantage of views and summer breezes. Repetitive 9'x5' French doors alternate with 5-foot solid walls and are equipped with sliding wood shutters for sun control and privacy and with screen doors that slide into pocket walls when not in use.
The building is sited to provide a wind-protected garden on one side while the other side opens onto hedgerows, fields and the sea. The siding is composed of two profiles - one a drop siding, and the other a V-groove. This leads to a larger scale horizontal pattern. An overscaled ventilator caps the roof peak.