Near Bend, Oregon, architecture and interior design firm Hacker completed a contemporary residence that embraces the dramatic beauty of Central Oregon’s high desert. Created as a weekend getaway for a couple and their extended family, the home draws inspiration from the area’s volcanic landscapes, rugged terrain, and expansive skies.
The house immediately stands out with its combination of cedar, steel, and glass. While the materials give the home a strong architectural presence, the cedar exterior is stained in tones that echo the native plants, rocks, and shadows found throughout the surrounding landscape. From a distance, the home appears almost sculptural, while closer inspection reveals the texture and natural character of the wood.
A Journey Between Architectural Volumes
Arrival at the house is an experience in itself. A pathway threads between the home’s separate volumes, creating a gradual approach toward the entrance. This sequence offers changing perspectives of the architecture while highlighting the relationship between the building and the open terrain around it.
The shifting forms help break down the scale of the residence while creating sheltered outdoor spaces and moments of privacy. Glass surfaces capture reflections of the landscape and sky, allowing the home to feel different throughout the day as light conditions change.
Soaring Ceilings Define the Heart of the Home
At the center of the residence is a large open-plan living, dining, and kitchen area. This shared space is defined by exceptionally high wood-lined ceilings that create an immediate sense of openness.
Large windows rise alongside the soaring ceiling planes, bringing natural light deep into the interior. Hacker positioned windows throughout the house to frame specific views, giving each room its own perspective of the surrounding landscape and sky.
The warmth of cedar continues indoors, appearing on ceilings and wall surfaces to strengthen the visual connection between the interior and exterior. Combined with a restrained palette of white, black, and natural wood, the result is timeless and welcoming.
A Fireplace Anchors the Living Room
Within the open-plan interior, the living room offers a comfortable gathering place for family and guests. Tall windows wrap multiple walls, placing the changing scenery front and centre.
A wood-burning fireplace introduces warmth and texture, becoming a focal point during cooler seasons. The combination of natural materials, generous ceiling heights, and panoramic views creates a room that feels both expansive and comfortable.
The use of open sightlines allows conversations, views, and movement to flow naturally throughout the main living spaces.
A Bold Kitchen Contrast
Positioned beyond the dining area, the kitchen introduces a darker visual element to the otherwise light-filled interior.
Black cabinetry creates a striking contrast against the cedar finishes and bright surfaces found throughout the home. A long island provides ample preparation space while also acting as a gathering point for family and visitors.
The dining area forms a natural transition between the kitchen and living room, helping maintain openness while defining each function within the larger space.
Outdoor Living With Expansive Views
A covered patio extends the living spaces outdoors and offers an ideal place to take in the surrounding scenery. Protected from the elements, the space allows residents and guests to enjoy uninterrupted views across the high desert landscape.
The extensive glazing throughout the house helps blur the distinction between indoor and outdoor environments, making the changing colors of the sky and landscape an ever-present part of the experience.
Calm and Comfortable Private Spaces
The home’s bedrooms continue the restrained material palette found throughout the residence. In one bedroom, light wood cabinetry complements pale walls, flooring, and bedding, creating a bright and relaxing atmosphere.
Natural materials and simple finishes keep the focus on comfort and the views beyond the windows. The approach aligns with the home’s overall emphasis on simplicity, durability, and ease of use.
A Built-In Hot Tub for Relaxation
Among the home’s amenities is a built-in hot tub, providing another opportunity to enjoy the landscape and fresh air. Whether used during warm summer evenings or cooler desert nights, it adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the property.
Like many features throughout the residence, it supports the home’s purpose as a place where family and friends can gather, unwind, and spend time together.
With its cedar, steel, and glass exterior, soaring ceilings, expansive windows, and warm material palette, this home by Hacker captures the character of Central Oregon’s high desert in a modern architectural form.