Gig Harbor Residence

Juxtaposition creates a strong sense of place

The Gig Harbor Residence exemplifies Northwest Regionalism. The home sits at a forest opening and is contiguous with the tall fir trees that surround it. It is a one-story home designed to allow the residents to age in place, and features low linear roofs and clean lines. The juxtaposition between the tall firs and the linearity of the home ground it within the larger forest context and speak to what SEA’s clients love most about the site. The result is a warm and inviting home that encourages enjoyment of both the custom interior and the picturesque exterior.

Location
Gig Harbor, WA

Size
1,975 sf

Year
2021

Front of home with black vertical siding. Tall grasses, gravel yard, and large boulders

Open entry door with painting of birds in the foyer — A slender steel canopy shields the entryway from the elements.

The main living space has large amounts of glass allowing for views of the exterior courtyard space and the forest beyond from every room.

SEA learned quickly how important the outdoors are to the Gig Harbor Residence’s family. During the early stages of design, we listened, learned, and collaborated with this family of three to get to know them and their unique vision for their home — we let both the site and prominent aspects of their life, like their active lifestyle and desire to entertain, drive the project’s direction.

Exterior stone wood burning fireplace with two people sitting outside.

Back of home showing lap pool, fireplace, and full expanse of the home.

Creating an open meadow in a dense forest helped to make a rich and bright space for this small family that is active and likes to entertain.

Back elevation of home with pool outside and view of kitchen, dining room and living room inside.

The low linear roof has deep overhangs to shield from the summer sun and protect from the Northwest rains. Passive design elements, like large windows on the south, fewer windows on the north, and cross ventilation, promote sustainability.