This contemporary home is built in the USA but it features traditional Japanese aesthetics both inside and outside.
The Hidden Cove residence is located on Lake Washington and it consists of cedar-clad pavilions organized around a Japanese garden. The home features amazing views of the water and the Cascade Mountains in the distance.
The owners desired a tranquil atmosphere and access to water. The residence also needed to accommodate their unique collection of outdoor plants, for them, the garden was as important as the home. In terms of an architectural style, the goal was to create a dwelling that drew upon Japanese vernacular without being too literal.
The architecture team responded to an oddly shaped site with four pavilions, one of which is set an angle. Varying in size, the volumes are arranged around a lush garden. Exterior walls are wrapped in custom-milled cedar siding, helping the home blend with its earthy setting. The pavilions are topped with low-angled, hip roofs that take cues from traditional Japanese homes.
Within the home’s separate volumes, bedrooms and living areas are clearly delineated. The northern portion of the dwelling contains a garage and kitchen. An adjoining volume houses a living and dining room, which merges with a sheltered terrace overlooking the lake. The angled volume, which runs along the southern edge of the property, holds a master suite, a guest bedroom and an office suite. A detached pavilion on the west encompasses an art studio, a guest room and a gym. Throughout the residence, there are large windows that provide views of the inner garden or the landscape beyond the client’s property.
Rooms feature neutral colors, contemporary decor and natural finishes such as marble and wood. The team incorporated oversized oak doors with a ceruse finish and pocket doors to help maximize space. Ceilings are clad in slats of cedar – a material chosen for both its aesthetic and acoustical qualities.
The outdoor spaces include a water body and rocks that are also traditional for Japanese gardens.
The kitchen is done with dark cabinets, white stone countertops and lots of light from double-height ceilings.
The living room is done with pastel and neutral furniture, pendant lamps and a built-in fireplace.
