Removed and Refined – Woodway Residence by Olson Kundig
Olson Kundig blurs indoor-outdoor thresholds in Woodway Residence, transforming the home into an immersive dwelling that celebrates connection. The architect presents a series of glass pavilion forms elegantly weaving through the generous residence, encouraging the tranquil surroundings to blend with the serene interiors.
Woodway Residence welcomes occupants and guests alike with its distinctive Corten steel front door, which not only marks the entry but also hints at the meticulous attention to detail found throughout the home. Complementing the openness of its surroundings, the residence sits comfortably within the landscape. The intentional blending of natural and built elements gives rise to a bold architectural form, punctuated by refined touches that suggest a bespoke quality. Designed to embrace the natural environment, the approach integrates thinly framed openings and extensive glazing to maximise views. Contrasting these subtle gestures, the structure is anchored firmly in place by masonry.
Olson Kundig infuses Woodway Residence with a distinctive understanding of materiality, elevating the design while remaining sensitive to the site’s context. Nestled within a secluded Pacific Northwest setting, the home also incorporates elements of modernist design. Upon entering, one is greeted by glimpses of the surrounding environment, setting the tone for the entire space. Bridging the divide between inside and out was integral to the brief, both in terms of functionality and atmosphere, with a central zone serving as a connecting hub that links the various pavilions.
Throughout the residence, expansive floor-to-ceiling windows offer sweeping views of distant meadows, wetlands and forests. Accessible via oversized sliding panels, the surrounding terrace areas seamlessly extend the living spaces, blurring the boundaries between inside and out. This design feature not only enhances the livability of the home but also creates a sense of openness and fluidity. The ability to open up the abode also invites natural light and fresh air into the interior, while closing off the space offers a more secluded retreat. At the heart of the living area, a steel-framed hearth serves as a focal point, paying homage to the traditional hearth as a source of warmth and a place to gather and connect.
Bridging the divide between inside and out was integral to the brief, both in terms of functionality and atmosphere, with a central zone serving as a connecting hub that links the various pavilions.
Woodway Residence is a serene retreat, the perfect place to be immersed with the surrounds. Wanting to mirror the peaceful ambiance of the environment, Olson Kundig crafts a series of pavilions that counters the natural elements, embodying a sense of calm and balance.
