"Built to withstand extreme weather, heavy snow, earthquakes, and forest fires, our home has protected itself and its systems while providing our family a beautiful retreat in nature and solitude."
Homeowner
Nighthawk Retreat
Eastern Cascade Foothills, Washington
Site
A remote south-facing ridge along the eastern foothills of the Cascade Mountains. Wind-driven snowy winters and hot arid summers with occasional brush fires characterize the severe climate. No public utilities were available.
Program
A family vacation retreat offering seclusion and connection to the natural environment. The site is off the grid, so solar electrical generation and energy conservation were critical to the success of the project.
Solution
The V-shaped house is cut into the ridge, allowing for an earth-sheltered passive solar design. The concrete roof and retaining walls allowed the house to be buried under four feet of earth – offering insulation in the winter and cavelike cooling in the summer. Concrete overhangs provide snow control and solar shading. Rolling metal shutters serve the dual purposes of forming a second skin which offers additional thermal control, as well as fire protection and security when the retreat is not in use.
Recognition
CRSI Design Awards
Honorable Mention
Excellence in Concrete Construction
Residential Structures Award
Sustainable Merit Award
21st Century Houses: 150 of the World's Best
by Robyn Beaver
150 Best Cottages & Cabin Ideas
by Francesc Zamora
Daily Journal of Commerce
"Building with Concrete"
Masterpieces: Country House Architecture + Design
by Michelle Galindo
Credits
Structural Engineer
Quantum Consulting Engineers
Photography
Jim Van Gundy
Homeowners
E|FA