In a bold move to embrace nature's elements, Wittman Estes has crafted a unique living space in Snohomish, Washington, that seamlessly blends with its surroundings. This project, named the French Creek Workshops House, is a testament to the studio's vision of creating homes that are not just shelters but extensions of the natural world.
Spanning 2,471 square feet, the residence is an oasis of calm for a retired couple, nestled on a 4.5-acre site that was once an animal sanctuary. The design philosophy is clear: to provide a serene retreat that offers comfort and beauty regardless of the season.
But here's where it gets interesting: the house and its adjacent 1,471-square-foot workshop are designed to 'express the climate.' With a corrugated metal roof and deep overhangs, the exterior is a masterpiece of functionality, shading the wooden exterior and large windows that invite the outdoors in.
The central courtyard, an intermediate outdoor space, is a journey in itself, progressing from a welcoming garden to a series of ponds and an elevated pathway. It's a living, breathing entity, influenced by the movement of rainwater, inspired by ancient Roman impluvium, and designed to route water into reflecting pools.
And this is the part most people miss: by embracing the rainy climate, Wittman Estes has created a home that is not only beautiful but also practical. When it rains, water cascades gently into the garden, an experience the owners can now engage with, thanks to the thoughtful design.
The single-level house is a masterpiece of aging-in-place and multigenerational living, with wide doorways, flush thresholds, and sandblasted concrete floors that provide a warm and durable foundation. The gentle terracing ensures the house fits seamlessly into the sloped terrain.
The workshop, a haven for artistic pursuits like weaving, glass blowing, and furniture making, is positioned to minimize noise, creating a serene environment. The shed roof, with its clerestory windows, draws in diffused light, a subtle yet powerful design choice.
Founding principal Matt Wittman explains, "They wanted the home to be an expression of who they are." And with this project, Wittman Estes has delivered on that vision, creating a space where the residents can live and create side by side, gracefully and seamlessly.
This project is just one example of Wittman Estes' nature-connected designs. The studio, founded by Matt Wittman and Jodi Estes in 2012, has a portfolio that includes a rapid assembly fire station in California, a courtyard house inspired by Chinese garden design in Seattle, and an elevated extension to a 1940s beach house in Washington.
So, what do you think? Is embracing the climate through design a bold move or a natural progression? Share your thoughts in the comments; we'd love to hear your perspective!
