We were approached by a couple with two children to design a home for their semi-rural lot in Ashland with beautiful south and north facing views.

It was exciting to work with a request for “modern farm” concept with a gable/saltbox roof as a strong central anchor by accentuating the steeper central gable. The gable focuses the orientation to the south (and north) and protects the house from the west sun, neighbors and vehicular approach. The roof on the east side protects but opens up to the foothills and sunrises.

Resulting in a “sheltering roof” concept, the design gives the house a strong, protected feeling while still allowing connection to the outside. The west part of the home expresses the master wing: supporting and embracing the center of the home. The wrap around porch on the south, east and north contributes to this feeling as well. The western “shed” portion counteracts the grade slope and invites an opening gesture to the east by addressing family gardening, natural landscape and the beautiful, expansive sky view. Framing the southern view, an open breezeway to a wood working shop connects a walk-through mudroom and the garden entry.

The final expression of natural materials on both the interior and exterior was accomplished by the owner sourcing wood finishes from his own reclaimed wood company. The contemporary use of materials and details grounded with conventional form is apropos to anchoring the traditional family and, at the same time, addressing ways in which family lives are constantly evolving.

Featured in Southern Oregon Magazine Summer 2017 issue.

Contractor: Jovick Construction LLC
Landscape Architect: Laurie Sager & Associates Landscape Architects Inc.