The Mori House by SHED

A considered amalgamation of landscape, natural materials and light, The Mori House feels like a tree house.

Grounded in distinct Japanese influences, the home’s name means forest in Japanese. The architect of the original home, Saul Zaik, was known for his influence in mid-century modern design and north-west regional modernism, which SHED references in the rejuvenation of the home. The new owners wanted a design that celebrated modernist minimalism with clean lines and natural materials. The brief also called for maximising natural light and views of the forest and sky while creating separation between zones and increasing the use of outdoor decks.

Nestled on a forested site in the west hills of Portland with views east to Mount Hood, the home appears cocooned in leafy greenery and sprawling ferns.

The vision for the renovation is therefore intrinsically linked to its location. Nestled on a forested site in the west hills of Portland with views east to Mount Hood, the home appears cocooned in leafy greenery and sprawling ferns. Beyond the vegetation, The Mori House consists of three structures: a house, a tea pavilion and a studio garage, all linked by elevated timber walkways and decks.

The main intention of the renovation was to restructure the home with skylights to welcome more natural light, frame views and reveal the original vaulted ceilings. Floor-to-ceiling glass walls and spatial changes, such as removing the existing loft and spiral staircase, allow views from all main-level spaces, and a new window above the cooktop offers views of swaying mature rhododendrons. Other significant changes include a new switchback stair next to the entry, an elevated primary suite and open-plan living spaces.

Beyond the vegetation, The Mori House consists of three structures: a house, a tea pavilion and a studio garage, all linked by elevated timber walkways and decks.

Glass, stone and timber dominate the home’s material palette. The main bedroom features a slatted fir screen aligning with the refinished exposed beams, welcoming natural light into the hall and bathroom. In the bathroom, a wooden Japanese soaking tub and a volcanic stone vanity add drama to the space. SHED beautifully harmonies Japanese influences with the original mid-century modern architecture to create a layered and unique home.

Architecture by SHED. Build by Purch and Holding. Structural engineering by Grummel Engineering.