Garell Residence

on the Oregon Coast

This residence was designed for a retiring doctor, who after falling in love with the small town of Yachats, Oregon, decided to relocate to a quiet hillside along its border. The site is characterized by its coastal relationship, both in terms of its beautiful ties to nature as well as in terms of its exposure to severe weather conditions that can take shape in the form of horizontal wind driven rainstorms that can reach speeds up to 140 mph. The project is a 3,500 square foot residence located on a south-facing slope above the Yachats River. The area is heavily wooded with spruce, pine, and alder. The house is organized around its scenic views of its surroundings as well as defining a central courtyard that puts the focal point onto the hill above. The courtyard was designed following the Japanese garden or "Angawa", which allows for shelter from prevailing winds while still allowing for a connection to the outdoors. Large overhangs also protect the home from the strong winds. The high volume of annual rainfall was considered within the design by incorporating large copper scuppers that divert the water into falling streams above large collection basins. The entry frames a view onto the central courtyard and allows the residents the convenience of an accessible mudroom to quickly and easily clean themselves after being exposed to the outdoors. The living and dining areas of the home continue to frame views of the courtyard and rock garden while opening up large views on the opposite wall of the canyon and ocean below.

Featured in Oregon Home, November/December 2001, “Japanese Modern”

Read this article in The Seattle Times

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