Royal II by William Kaven Architecture

Sitting atop one of the United States’ largest urban reserves, Royal II frames the inherent beauty of its surroundings, allowing life to unfold amid the woodlands, only minutes from downtown Portland.

A decade ago, William / Kaven Architecture purchased nine parcels of land overlooking Forest Park on the northeast slope of Portland’s West Hills. “We were, for the first time, our own client, and the objective was to create a collection of homes linked through design and materiality that would serve a variety of families and their unique needs,” recalls Daniel Kaven, partner at William / Kaven Architecture. Royal II, like its predecessor Royal I, draws on a simple material palette of dark steel, concrete, glass and custom bronze-black cladding, yet the design responds uniquely to the site’s dramatic slope.

William / Kaven Architecture embraced the natural fall of the site with a multi-level design that combines dramatic cantilevers and balconies nestled amid the forest, crafting an experience of midair suspension.

William / Kaven Architecture embraced the natural fall of the site with a multi-level design that combines dramatic cantilevers and balconies nestled amid the forest, crafting an experience of midair suspension. Expansive glazing to the east heightens the arrival experience, with occupants greeted by lush views upon entering the internal garage. Beyond, a foyer with bespoke seating offers a moment of reprieve before descending into the living spaces below. Reflecting on this arrangement, Kaven says, “the sequence was conceived as a way to shed your work away before transitioning to your home and family.” The two floors below, immersed in the woods, are set around a central staircase and light well, which binds each space with natural light. Bright and airy materials accentuate this quality, offering a visual counterpoint to the residence’s dark exterior.

Royal II was purchased during early construction as the primary home for a renowned chef and bestselling food writer and her family, who sought a more wild, uncultivated and private setting to enjoy a quieter lifestyle. The homeowner’s passion for cooking drove William / Kaven Architecture to redesign the kitchen as a focal point to the main living area. “Extra space was allocated for a sizeable pantry to ensure ample storage, and white oak cabinetry was integrated to display the client’s published cookbooks alongside other influential food literature,” says Kaven. The large, open floor plan connects the kitchen to the social energy of family and guests gathering in the living room and spilling onto the tree-fronted balcony – an idyllic setting to enjoy alone or in good company.

Encouraging constant interaction with the natural world, the addition of a light-filled observatory and verdant rooftop garden seamlessly leads the eye out to the dense forest.

Encouraging constant interaction with the natural world, the addition of a light-filled observatory and verdant rooftop garden seamlessly leads the eye out to the dense forest, reaffirming the dwelling’s striking natural setting. Reflecting on these powerful connections, Kaven says, “Royal II is inseparable from its geographic and natural context – it engages the senses, inspires reflection and creates harmony between humans and the environment.” Indeed, Royal II’s thoughtful composition honours the beauty of the landscape, complete with Douglas Fir and Alder trees, owls, deer, cougars and bears, delivering a reposeful home set against ever-changing vistas.

Architecture, interior design and landscape design by William / Kaven Architecture. Build by Metcalf Design & Construction.