Building a dream home on Lake Chelan’s north shore allowed Noreen and Phillip to blend their distinct backgrounds and design tastes. Designed by the renowned architecture firm Syndicate Smith, this house is not just a residence; it’s a gathering place for their family, children, and future generations. The design emphasizes aging in place and embraces the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
Noreen, with her deep roots as a fourth-generation Washingtonian, grew up near these waters. Phillip, on the other hand, experienced a nomadic military childhood without a lasting sense of home. Yet, upon discovering Lake Chelan, Phillip shared Noreen’s affection for this landscape. Together, they aimed to combine her familial legacy with his yearning for permanence in their lakeside retreat.
A modern form crafted by nature: The Lake Chelan Residence
The property sits perched above Lake Chelan, offering sweeping views of the water and Noreen’s childhood wheat fields. Once the site of a 1969 family mobile home, this location carries a meaningful history. The couple reimagined the space, preserving its legacy while looking forward.
Syndicate Smith designed an L-shaped structure that utilizes the site’s unique orientation. This strategic placement maximizes lake vistas and shelters from the harsh western sun, creating a tranquil courtyard and pool terrace.
Dynamic exteriors of charred wood and raw steel
With a sophisticated combination of charred wood siding and raw steel, the residence’s exterior evolves naturally with time. As the materials weather, they develop a rich patina, harmonizing with the natural environment.
A welcoming approach
The entrance features a broad, illuminated walkway leading to a glass-panelled door. This design element, paired with deep roof overhangs, ensures a sheltered arrival. The minimalist landscaping and strategic lighting complement the home’s architecture without overshadowing it.
Inviting interiors with modern details
Inside, a warm wood ceiling matched with window trim welcomes guests. This design choice contrasts beautifully with clean white walls and charcoal tiles. A built-in bench with rust-colored cushions by the windows adds both function and comfort.
Balancing modern and traditional
The ground-floor living spaces reflect Noreen’s love for modern design and Phillip’s attraction to traditional warmth. Syndicate Smith expertly combined these elements using exposed beams and a natural palette. Open layouts ensure accessibility and always bring focus back to the stunning natural views of their Lake Chelan sanctuary.
Communal dining and entertaining
The dining area, with leather chairs and a large dining table, creates a warm and inviting space ideal for family gatherings and entertaining.
Warm, functional kitchen design
The kitchen showcases timber cabinetry alongside dark grey upper cabinets and a striking stone backsplash. The kitchen island serves as a functional workspace complemented by dark seating, providing both style and substance.
Outdoor elegance with stunning views
The outdoor living area features a Modpools shipping container pool, set within a protected courtyard. A covered patio and rooftop deck extend the living space, offering breathtaking views of Lake Chelan and the surrounding home.
Staircase design in harmony
Steel staircases with warm wood treads and cable railings lead to the upper floor, ensuring the design is both practical and visually light. A fallen branch sculpture provides a natural accent, enhancing the home’s organic feel.
Spaces dedicated to the future
The upstairs bunk room is designed with future generations in mind, offering a playful space for grandchildren alongside guest rooms, maintaining a family-centric approach.
The Syndicate Smith-designed Lake Chelan home expertly fuses modern architecture with traditional warmth through its clever use of materials and thoughtful design. This house stands as a testament to Noreen and Phillip’s vision of a family abode that honors history and anticipates the future.
For more on artfully combining modern and traditional elements, explore how Aleš Boem’s 3D-printed glasses blend innovation with style effortlessly.
Photography by Will Austin | Architect: Syndicate Smith | Architectural Design Team: Steven Booher, Principal Architect / Evan VanSandt, Project Manager / Jake Monroe, Architectural Designer / Hannah Hering, Interior Designer | Contractor: Chris Groby, Carlisle Custom Homes | Structural Engineer: Eric Dann, BTL Engineering | Landscape Architect: Sydney Janecek, SCJ Alliance
Source: contemporist.com
Frequently asked questions
What materials are used on the house exterior?
The residence’s exterior is crafted from a combination of charred wood siding and raw steel, which evolve naturally with time and develop a rich patina.
How does the house design make use of the site?
The L-shaped structure, designed by Syndicate Smith, utilizes the site’s unique orientation to maximize lake vistas and provide shelter from the harsh western sun, creating a tranquil courtyard and pool terrace.
What design features are included for aging in place?
The home emphasizes aging in place with open layouts that ensure accessibility, always focusing on the stunning natural views of their Lake Chelan sanctuary.
What is the purpose of the home on Lake Chelan?
This house is a gathering place for the family, children, and future generations, reflecting Noreen’s familial legacy and Phillip’s yearning for permanence in their lakeside retreat.