Project: Camano Island Residence
Architecture: Studio PHH Architects
Lead Architect: Pierre-Henri Hoppenot
Landscape: ANR Landscape Architecture
Location: Camano Island, Washington, United States
Area: 1800 ft2
Year: 2023
Photo Credits: Rafael Soldi
A Slow Unveiling Through Nature
The Camano Island Residence by Studio PHH Architects is an architectural gem that unfolds gradually as you approach it. Set amidst a dense forest of fir and ferns on Camano Island, the home’s entrance is a carefully choreographed experience. A stone walkway leads to a bridge that takes you across to the house, where two perpendicular Corten steel walls obscure the view, creating a moment of tension before the grand reveal. This design invites you to engage with the surroundings and the architecture in a deliberate, meditative way.
Design Concept: Blending with the Landscape
Once inside, the home opens up dramatically, with its long axis revealing expansive views of the landscape. Two large corner windows sit at the edges of the home, facing each other as if engaged in a silent conversation with the surrounding environment. The design subtly draws your attention outward, blending the house with the horizon and creating the illusion that the structure disappears into its surroundings.
Material Palette: Rugged Minimalism
The interior of the residence reflects a rugged, minimalist aesthetic, using a selection of carefully chosen materials. Plain sawn oak, Corten steel, blackened steel, antiqued mirrors, and dark leathered quartzite contribute to the home’s warm yet minimalist feel. These materials are not only visually striking but also serve to frame the home’s connection to the rugged landscape, inviting the outdoors in.
Conclusion: A Harmonious Blend of Nature and Design
The Camano Island Residence is a masterclass in how architecture can harmonize with nature. Studio PHH Architects have created a home that not only respects its natural surroundings but also uses the landscape as an integral part of its design. The journey through the house, with its moments of compression and release, provides a deep connection to the environment, making it a perfect retreat that combines rugged beauty with thoughtful architectural design.
