Deer Harbor House, designed by Syndicate Smith, is a home that thrives on connection—to nature, to family, and to community. Nestled among trees on a carefully selected site, this home balances thoughtful architecture with an intimate relationship to its surroundings. For the owners, it is a place of joy and togetherness, where daily life flows seamlessly between indoors and outdoors.
The challenge was to honor Orcas Island’s historical essence while infusing modernity. The family, proud owners of a historical farm, envisioned a quintessential farmhouse, rooted in the island’s history, and crafted from on-site materials. Wood from fir trees logged on the property became the siding and interior, blending tradition with contemporary design.
The Split Cabin, designed by Syndicate Smith, captures the essence of cabin living with a deliberate nod to simplicity and a deep connection to nature. This 1,289-square-foot weekend retreat in the woods offers outdoor enthusiasts a minimalist basecamp for skiing in the winter and hiking in the summer.
Perched among the trees on challenging terrain, Icicle House, also called “The Treefort,” showcases innovation and determination. Syndicate Smith designed this modern three-story retreat to provide a growing family with a serene weekend getaway while respecting the natural environment.
The Anti Shed by Syndicate Smith reinterprets traditional architectural forms with a modern, minimalist flair, merging elegance with coziness. The design emphasizes transparency, adding a “ghostlike” quality that creates lightness while still offering the niche comfort of smaller, intimate spaces.
