Oregon Beach House

Perched on a steep meadow overlooking the Oregon coast, this beach house captures sweeping views of the ocean below. The homeowners wanted a family getaway with a nod to the ‘60s and ‘70s that would feel comfortable and protected on this precarious site to enjoy beautiful summer weather and dramatic winter storms. Among the main challenges in the design were the incredibly steep site, strict zoning rules to protect the shoreline and neighboring views, consideration of seismic activity, and protection against the rough weather off the ocean. Durable, sustainable exterior materials, including stainless steel, concrete, cedar shakes, and Ipe decking, were chosen to stand up to the punishing conditions and to patina as they age. Mono-pitched roofs protect from winter rain and summer sun, and the cantilevered deck and living room magnifies the connection to the open ocean below. Design challenges for the interior included capturing daylight even during rainy weather and screening views of adjacent houses while taking full advantage of the view. Clerestory windows bring daylight into the home and provide views to the hills and forest above. Each level of the house, from the public living spaces above to the bedrooms below, has a connection to the outdoors with ocean views and the sound of the surf. Simple, natural materials on the interior — wood, plaster, concrete, and tile chosen for their sustainability and their soft, beach-inspired pallet — allow the rich forest, meadow, and ocean colors of the site to dominate the experience of being in the place.