WINTHROP PIONEER

Nestled along Winthrop’s rolling hills, this contemporary agrarian farmhouse overlooks the Methow Valley and includes a 2,400 sq ft, 3 beds 2.5 bath house and 1,200 sq ft detached garage/studio. The design goal was to create a series of gathering spaces that would accommodate large family gatherings for generations to come. This was achieved through a communal farm-to-table kitchen, large lofted game room and an exterior detached garage and shop creating a courtyard and fireplace zone. These communal spaces provide a variety of views, sun light, and protection from the elements.

Weaving through the sagebrush and tall ponderosa pines of the Methow one arrives, welcomed by a simple traditional gable with deep overhangs and distinct dormers. Upon entering the front door, the view opens up to the grassy farmlands below with large sliding doors that merge inside with outside and provide passive ventilation. The design intent was to create as much indoor-outdoor living as possible to foster the family’s connection to the natural environment. The lofted dormer brings filtered daylight into the main core of the home where the family plays games and gathers at the central dining table.
The regional vernacular of metal roof barns and “firewise” considerations informed the exterior material selection. Utilization of brick and metal were selected to achieve a textured cohesiveness as well as to create a low maintenance, robust exterior. A steel plate roof connects the two structures to shed snow away from exterior entries, walkways, and parking areas. Given the extreme temperatures in the Methow, the house is designed with a high-performance envelope that incorporates exterior insulation and high efficiency triple pane windows & doors.