When two loving families come together and form a single unit, the recipe for success is dependent on several factors. One of the most important of these is a large space where each and every member enjoys a sense of relaxation and comfort, an essential aid to harmonious co-existence. With this need in mind, the client set about finding an architect who would create a dream home on his panoramic hillside site, at the foot of Badger Mountain in Richmond, Washington, a place of natural beauty which enjoys wonderful views. The project was finally undertaken by the Seattle based practice of First Lamp Architecture, a one-step organization who would build the house from the drawing board to completion. The inspiration for the design was based on the dual nature of the site, with distant views of the Columbia River from one side and the bare mountain view from the other, and the clean lines of Japanese Architecture, ensuring that the sincerity of the home enters into a dialogue with its surroundings.

The 5.000 sq.ft., 6 bedroom residence stands on an elevated concrete base, a functional design which adds a contemporary aesthetic to the exterior and contrasts with organic feel of the extensive use of timber including a beautiful natural cedar pine flooring merging the indoor and outdoor spaces. The large open spaces of the interior lend themselves to an active family life and entertaining in a large guest and party room. Design details of stainless steel and glass are used throughout and an impressive centrally positioned fireplace makes for cozy family get togethers during the chilly winter months.

It goes without saying that a home and family which respect nature should incorporate a higher than average degree of sustainability. This element of the design was not overlooked, on the contrary it was a vital detail expressed through the Rigid Board insulation on the exterior, reducing thermal bridging, super insulated fibreglass windows and doors, Radial heated flooring and LED lighting. As any luxury family home is not complete without a pool, deck and games room plus a sports court, these were also included in the design and so all that is left to do is to wish the newly formed family the best of health and happiness in their spectacular brand new hillside home!