Timeless and Modern Residence on an Island in Washington

Nestled on a rural property on Whidbey Island, this home serves as a part-time sanctuary for a multi-generational family deeply rooted on the island for several decades. With utmost respect for the century-old agricultural structures dotting the landscape, the house carefully nestles along the edge of a densely forested slope, offering views of chicken coops, a weathered red barn, cattle fields, and a fishing pond. Functioning both as a retreat and a temporary abode for a growing family, who possess strong local ties spanning multiple generations on the island, the house mirrors the diverse history of the land and the family itself. Designed for summer barbecues, fishing getaways, and family reunions, it exhibits flexibility and resilience. While designed to comfortably accommodate two residents, the house can host up to 20 people, featuring a main four-bedroom house and a compact lodging for numerous grandchildren and guests. Throughout the gently sloping landscape, the house is composed of three rectangular volumes arranged around a central courtyard. This courtyard, crisscrossed with pathways, is adorned with native vegetation and bordered by a low wall made of local basalt. The wood from the minimal deforestation required was thoughtfully stored on-site and is being repurposed for cattle fences, furniture, and seasonal firewood for the fireplace and new fire pit on the field’s edge. A notable feature of this home is its interior doors and wall art, which consist of solid cedar slabs carved decades ago by the family patriarch. These pieces establish a meaningful connection between the family’s past and present. The materials palette, including naturally weathered woods, concrete, locally sourced stone walls, and accents of black steel, aims to exude warmth and rustic charm, while maintaining simplicity, clarity, and openness—a house that pays tribute to the timeless essence of the forest and the agricultural heritage of the land. Project name: Whidbey Island Farm Retreat Location: Whidbey Island, WA Architects: mwworks Area: 4,420 sq ft Year: 2019 Photography: Kevin Scott Manufacturers: Subzero/Wolf, Blu Dot, Brombal, Davide Groppi, Driscoll Robbins, Focus One Home, Plaster veneer by Studio C, Quantum Windows & Doors, Seed Design, Urbanedge, mwworks