Olson Kundig

False Bay Writer's Cabin

False Bay Writer's Cabin

Olson Kundig

False Bay Writer's Cabin

SIZE
0 Sqft - 1000 Sqft

YEAR
2010

LOCATION
San Juan County, WA, United States

TYPE
Residential › Private House

False Bay Writer's Cabin

This 500 square foot island cabin serves as a private writer’s retreat and guest cottage.

The owners wanted a space that would feel totally connected to the natural landscape, allowing them to take full advantage of the mild climate, scenic views and the proximity to wildlife; at the same time, they needed the cabin to be easily secured when not in use.

False Bay Writer's Cabin
False Bay Writer's Cabin

The cabin is basically a glass house surrounded by three wooden slat decks and topped with an inverted hip roof with deep overhangs.

Through a system of hydraulic winches, wire rope, pivoting sheaves and lead blocks, these decks can be raised to serve as shutters, completely closing off the cabin.

False Bay Writer's Cabin
False Bay Writer's Cabin

Open, the shutter-decks are outdoor living space, connecting to the interior with 10 foot tall windows and sliding doors.

The south shutter-deck can be opened independently of the other two, and an interior fireplace can rotate 180 degrees to be enjoyed from the exterior.

The inverted roof forces water to drain to the rear of the cabin, eliminating a drip edge on the shutter-decks.

False Bay Writer's Cabin
False Bay Writer's Cabin

The interior of the space is essentially a single glazed room with a modest back-of-cabin area housing a small bathroom and kitchenette.

Finishes are restrained, punctuated only by a blackened steel floor inlay that bisects the cabin. A rack attached to the back of the cabin organizes the owner’s kayaks.

False Bay Writer's Cabin


False Bay Writer's Cabin
False Bay Writer's Cabin
False Bay Writer's Cabin
False Bay Writer's Cabin

Olson Kundig
T +1 206 6245670 F +1 206 6243730
Olson Kundig
159 S Jackson St # 600, Seattle, WA 98104, United States