Perched in the stunning hills above Salem, Oregon, the Eola Hills Residence, crafted by Ueda Design Studio, embraces its breathtaking location. The home offers panoramic views of Salem and the distant eastern mountains, with vineyards unfolding across the western horizon. On misty mornings, it appears to float above the landscape, creating a serene and magical ambiance.
Designed for a family of four and their two German Shepherds, this residence marries comfort with durability, combining expansive vistas and a welcoming atmosphere ideal for gathering with loved ones.
A journey up the hill
The experience begins well before reaching the front door. A winding mile-long driveway weaves through the landscape, offering glimpses of mountains and hills that slowly reveal the house. This journey, reminiscent of approaching a traditional Japanese tea house, creates anticipation.
At the drive’s end, a garden centered around a water fountain crafted from local boulders signals the home’s entrance. This simple yet profound design introduces the deep connection between architecture and nature that defines the project.
Inspired by Japanese design principles
The house draws heavily on Japanese architectural ideas, particularly in its interplay between interior spaces and the outdoor environment. Visitors enter through an understated foyer showcasing woodblock prints, before dramatic views of Salem and Mt. Hood unfold as they progress eastward.
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The residence features a balance of intimate spaces and large open volumes, fostering discovery while maintaining a sense of warmth despite its considerable size.
The heart of the home
At the core of the 8,000-square-foot residence is an open living, dining, and kitchen area designed for family gatherings and entertainment. A striking feature is the soaring 26-foot ceiling above the dining area, framed by glass walls on three sides that integrate the outdoor landscape.
Continuity is key, with concrete flooring extending to the patio and the plywood ceiling forming a roof overhang. This design blurs the lines between interior and exterior, enhancing the connection to nature.
Warm materials like dark walnut cabinetry provide contrast and richness, while metal and wood screens filter light, delineating different areas within the open layout.
Opening the house to wine country
The western edge of the main living area features a cozy lounge that overlooks vineyards and rolling hills. Large lift-and-slide pocket doors vanish into the walls, inviting fresh air and natural light indoors, and seamlessly extending the interior space into the landscape.
This area frequently hosts the homeowners, who revel in the peaceful views and enjoy spending time with music and wine.
Spaces designed for family living
Situated between the dining room and lounge, the living area offers panoramic views. A 6-foot-long fireplace and dark walnut cabinetry create a welcoming atmosphere. Glazed screen doors ensure visual connections to both east and west.
The kitchen’s open design connects it to the dining and living spaces, allowing the family to engage while cooking or entertaining. A corner window offers views of the driveway, perfect for spotting arriving guests.
A sculptural staircase
The home’s suspended staircase, resembling origami, connects public and private areas. Built from folded steel and wood, it’s both structurally sound and visually light, casting dynamic shadows throughout the day.
Elevated views from every level
A mezzanine overlooks the living space below, leading to a remarkable covered rooftop deck offering 270-degree views. This space, equipped with a fireplace, is perfect for year-round entertainment.
The upper floor houses family bedrooms with views of vineyards and sunsets, maintaining intimacy within the large home by embracing a more personal scale.
The basement expands the home’s recreational spaces with a wine room, sauna, media room, fitness area, and playroom.
Built for the next century
Sustainability was pivotal in designing the Eola Hills Residence. Durable materials like cedar siding, fiber cement panels, and steel ensure longevity. High-performance insulation and windows, combined with advanced mechanical systems, optimize energy efficiency. Features such as high-efficiency heat pumps, radiant heating, and operable windows naturally regulate the home’s temperature.
The house’s thoughtful design and execution, led by Ueda Design Studio, with contributions from Bykonen Carter Quinn and built by Cellar Ridge Construction, intertwines nature, architecture, and family life into an extraordinary living experience.
Photography by Kevin Scott | Architecture and interior design: Nahoko Ueda, Ueda Design Studio | Structural Engineering: Bykonen Carter Quinn | Builder: Cellar Ridge Construction | Landscape: Groundworkshop, GT Landscape Solutions
Source: contemporist.com