On San Juan Island, Washington, Tom Kundig of Olson Kundig Architects worked closely with the owner of the site on the design on The Pierre. Not wanting to lose the outcrop of rock or hinder the spectacular view, the residence was built into the rock itself as a bunker like concept, appearing to be part of the natural landscape.
Extensive excavations were necessary to make space for the structure; all debris however was reused as building material and crushed to create part of the flooring. The interior is an open plan living, dining and kitchen space, double height windows flood the space with natural daylight. Throughout the home, hand hewn rock has been left intact, its rugged outlines setting the tone for the medieval ambience of the interior which contrasts sharply with the almost palatial furnishings and chandeliers. A pivoting steel and glass door leads to an outside terrace, which backs onto a small forest. A remarkable feat of architecture completed under extreme conditions resulting into an island retreat which blends beautifully with its unique location.
