Music Box

A home with a tune of its own

The Music Box Residence is designed around the intimate and communal qualities of music and family. This modern home is for two musicians and their children, plus hosting visiting family and entertaining. SEA’s design balances isolated space for playing music along with areas for gathering – the multi-level structure is organized to acoustically-isolate the entire lower level for percussion practice. Music Box takes advantage of a steeply sloping site by framing magnificent views of the Portland cityscape and the Cascade Range beyond.

Location
Portland, OR

Size
6,473 sf

Year
2016

Achievements
2017 Dwell’s Top 20 Homes
2017 Gold Nugget Merit Award for Best Custom Home

Outline Graphic showing the 3 functions of the Home. Areas to play music, host guests, and root top parties.

Piano room at front of house. Owner is playing piano

On the main level sits the piano studio where Music Box’s other resident musician’s students come to learn and play. Her studio opens onto the main living room and the covered outdoor living area, allowing for recitals and parties in the connecting spaces.

Central Living space. Large stairwell, 2 story high ceilings. — The openness of this space along with the exposed feature staircase offers many places for guests to perch and enjoy a performance.

Exterior of home showing central staircase and kids going upstairs

Family on the rooftop at night, enjoying the firepit and views of the lit up city

The upper level houses the couple’s children, parents, and guests. Continue up and an electronic roof hatch pivots open, revealing a rooftop deck, complete with commanding views of Forest Park, the city, and mountains beyond.

Straight on of bridge leading to wooden front door — Make it stand out

A long bridge, with a bamboo forest below, leads from the sidewalk to the main entry. The exterior, clad in black stained siding, is reminiscent of sho sugi ban, or charred wood, and pays homage to the clients’ Japanese heritage.

Sitting area with expansive views of the city below

Straight on of dark wood kitchen and dining room table.

Bright white interior walls contrast with the exterior black siding, adding to the contemporary aesthetic. Warm wood inspired by the Pacific Northwest is incorporated in several places, including walnut cabinetry in the kitchen, oak flooring, and treads on the black metal feature staircase.