A 3.5 acre property overlooking Fisherman Bay on Lopez Island, WA is the site for this contemporary cottage. The clients, who planned this as their retirement home wanted a place of retreat that would allow for Aging in Place and connection to the outdoors.
Over half the property is a preserved grassy meadow which maintains the expansive views to the north and northwest for this property and its neighbors. The south and east portions of the site are heavily wooded. The house was planned to take advantage of both the sea and forest views and allow the occupants to follow the sun as it changes throughout the day with a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces. There is a detached garage along a meandering entry drive that also serves as a workshop.
The 2,000 sf home includes two Main Bedroom Suites with the lower being for guests unless one story living becomes necessary or preferred in the future. A two story circulation zone connects, both horizontally and vertically, the various spaces arranged to maximize the sea view. Open but defined spaces create a casual yet refined interior environment. A covered entry porch and a covered outdoor dining area connect the front and rear outdoor areas with the great-room interior.
The client had expressed a desire for a “modern cottage” that would be in keeping with the character of the island and be low maintenance. The thermally treated wood siding and metal roof were selected to meet these goals. The simple gable forms honor a legacy of vernacular architecture prevalent in the San Juan Islands and were accommodating to a more affordable construction budget.
