little washington residence
Washington, VA

2002 Residential Design
size: 2,400 sf

Set against the backdrop of the Shenandoah Mountains, this 2,400 sf dwelling is just minutes from the town of Washington, VA.  The rigid geometry of this tree-house for adults is juxtaposed with the natural landscape in which it has been placed.  Because of the steep incline and rugged terrain of the site, the house was set on piers to eliminate foundation walls and minimize the effect on the environment. 

A deceptively simple box engaged by a cylindrical stainless steel stair tower, the house is entered on the second of three stories by means of a bridge that runs through the house to an outdoor living space.  The public realm is on this entry level with living, dining, kitchen and a library.  On the lower level are guest bedrooms and a large family room.  The master bedroom is located on the upper level adjacent to a private deck.  Above the master bedroom is a roof-top garden which offers panoramic views of the rolling hills of Virginia.