Prentiss Balance Wickline Architects has designed this modern mountain house consisting of three wood-clad boxes that climb a moderate slope, situated in Winthrop, Washington. The arrangement of the boxes creates a semi-enclosed grassy area that dissolves into the native landscape.

As construction begins on a pristine site, it can be painful to watch the earthwork. Carpets of native grasses and flowers are ripped up and certain trees inevitably must be removed to make way for a new house. In the case of Wildflower House, the site’s unspoiled meadows and forest demanded a careful approach. The home encompasses 1,970 square feet of living space with four bedrooms and three bathrooms.

DESIGN DETAILS: ARCHITECT Prentiss Balance Wickline Architects BUILDER Impel Construction Co LANDSCAPE DESIGN Prentiss Balance Wickline Architects

This included hiring a native plant specialist, whose team restored lush vegetation to areas damaged during construction. In addition, the surrounding forest was thinned of small-diameter trees according to “firewise” best practices. The result is a healthy and beautiful site that remains hospitable to abundant wildlife.

Nestled thoughtfully in the terrain, the design is a response to the site’s landscape as well as the needs of the family of four who inhabit it. It consists of three wood-clad boxes that climb a moderate slope, tucked behind a prominent knoll. The boxes enclose a kitchen/living/dining wing, a bedroom wing, and a separate guest house.

The kitchen/living/dining and bedroom wings are held together by the glazed entry, which provides views through to the meadow to the east. From the entry, one can ascend a short flight of steps to the bedrooms or descend to the living room. The house and guest house create a semi-enclosed grassy area that dissolves into the native landscape.

A large patio for dining extends the living space out towards the forested valley to the south. Deep overhangs shade interiors from the sun in summer and provide some clear space at the perimeter in winter.

The house is full of life, as the owners routinely host friends, family, and an assortment of pets. The kitchen is a focal point, with abundant natural light and a large island for shared cooking and serving. Although the house is not large, it accommodates a high-ceilinged primary suite, two small bedrooms for the children, and two Murphy beds in the guest house.

What We Love: This modern mountain house in Washington beautifully balances family space and serene design. There are so many wonderful details in this home, from the serene color palette to the large windows framing views of the peaceful surroundings. Overall, the project team did an incredible job of creating a home that feels both welcoming and tranquil, making it a perfect retreat for family and friends.

Tell Us: What are your thoughts on the design of this Washington residence? Let us know in the Comments below!

Note: Check out a couple of other incredible home tours that we have highlighted here on One Kindesign in the state of Washington: A timeless beach house designed as a forever home on Bainbridge Island and An amazing waterfront house built for multigenerational living in Seattle.

The Wildflower House is full of life, as the owners routinely host friends, family, and an assortment of pets. The children’s bedrooms open via pocket doors to a windowed nook the size of an extra-long twin mattress. The bedrooms and nook create a “kid zone,” perfect for sleepovers, reading, and playing with friends and family.

The guest house provides additional space for guests and an office that looks out into a deep ravine to the north.

PHOTOGRAPHER Andrew Pogue Photography