At first glance, this Orcas Island home keeps a low profile. But step inside and it quickly becomes clear that simplicity is doing the heavy lifting. Designed by Heliotrope Architects for a retired couple, the 1,450 square foot house uses height, glass, and careful planning to feel open, calm, and expansive.
The house sits on a narrow ridge surrounded by a rare grove of old growth trees, with views unfolding in every direction. Filtered water views stretch south, a wooded valley lies to the north, Douglas firs rise to the west, and access comes from the east.
A straightforward gabled form anchors the design. Built with prefabricated trusses, the structure keeps costs in check while creating tall interior volumes. The gable is split into two volumes, each oriented toward distant northern and southern views, with the entry placed at their meeting point.
Finished in a limited palette of black, white, and dark weathered wood, the exterior reflects both budget discipline and the owners’ preference for restraint.
The interior plan is clear and efficient. Public spaces are located to the south of the entry, while private rooms sit to the north.
The living room occupies the southern volume, where full height glazing at the gable end draws light deep into the space. Views extend through the old growth canopy toward Rosario Strait, creating a strong connection between interior and landscape. Tall volumes help the room feel expansive despite the home’s compact size.
The living area opens directly onto a large cantilevered deck. Projecting into the surrounding trees, the deck feels suspended within the canopy. From this vantage point, views of the water unfold while the house remains closely tied to the forest setting.
The dining and kitchen areas share the same open volume as the living room. This arrangement reinforces a sense of openness and continuity across the public spaces.
A restrained material and color palette keeps the interiors visually quiet. This allows the owners’ art collection and the surrounding landscape to remain the primary focus.
Private spaces are located at the north end of the house. The primary suite opens directly onto the rocky knoll, creating a close relationship with the site itself. Generous openings and careful orientation maintain a sense of openness while preserving privacy.
This Orcas Island home demonstrates how thoughtful planning can outweigh square footage. By combining a simple form with tall volumes, generous glazing, and a restrained palette, Heliotrope created a house that feels calm and spacious.