Homes

Overlooking the Elk River on a steep wooded slope in southwest Oregon, this multi-level passive solar residence feels like a treehouse. Many windows and skylights have been incorporated to accommodate natural daylighting year round and roof overhangs that are sized appropriately to limit sun penetration in the summer as well as offering the house protection from the elements.

Accessibility to the site is limited, which prevents the use of heavy machinery and materials in the home's construction - most notably, all concrete had to be mixed in small batches. As a result, the house steps down the hillside, supported on posts, which offers a reduction in the need for concrete on site, a smaller footprint and less site disturbance.