On the Boards

On Orcas Island, the largest of the San Juan Islands of the Pacific Northwest and colloquially known as “the gem of the San Juans,” this intimate 1,200 square foot “getaway” cottage is set on a forested site within a long-time family farm.

With the challenge of restoring and contemporizing the original structure while preserving its innate charm, the design team repurposed scalloped wood shingles and other exterior wood working details handcrafted by the young owner-couple’s family and local tradesmen. Multi-color siding was replaced for a more monochromatic aesthetic and to draw focus to the natural surroundings.

Location:

Eastsound, WA (Orcas Island)

R+B Services:

Architecture

Interior Design

Furniture Selection/Procurement

Project Summary

Mossywoods Cottage

Type

Residential – Custom Home

Scope
Architecture
Interior Design
Furniture Selection/Procurement

Description

On Orcas Island, the largest of the San Juan Islands of the Pacific Northwest and colloquially known as “the gem of the San Juans,” this intimate 1,200 square foot “getaway” cottage is set on a forested site within a long-time family farm.

With the challenge of restoring and contemporizing the original structure while preserving its innate charm, the design team repurposed scalloped wood shingles and other exterior wood working details handcrafted by the young owner-couple’s family and local tradesmen. Multi-color siding was replaced for a more monochromatic aesthetic and to draw focus to the natural surroundings.

Inside, a complete remodel is marked by the addition of sidelights flanking the new, repositioned wood front door, a custom live-edge walnut mirror, and a built-in bench with open cubbies. Beyond the centrally located open kitchen, complete with a quartzite topped walnut cabinet system and island, the main living area features extensive storage and library space. Ample seating offers plenty of room for settling in with a book and warming by the modern suspended fireplace.

Flooring throughout is durable large format porcelain tile, selected with the owner’s dogs and the area’s variable weather in mind. Existing exterior cedar was repurposed/refinished and new matching cedar was specified for the living area ceiling and exterior soffits. Additional rooms include the main bedroom suite and a flexible guest suite.

Location:

Eastsound, WA (Orcas Island)

R+B Services:

Architecture

Interior Design

Furniture Selection/Procurement

Like this project?

Let us know by giving it a thumbs up, signaling to us which projects really stand out.