Basalt Canyon Shelter

Situated at the transition from basalt canyon to broad rolling ridge, the shelter creates a bridge between these two distinct features of the landscape. By inhabiting the edge of each of these territories the shelter is not consumed by either. It can comfortably live at the edge for it is the exact point where scales begin to change. It can be the change. It is precisely here that the inhabitants are able to occupy the space of the canyon while simultaneously experiencing the broad openness of the ridge.

A modest weekend shelter, it is entirely off the grid and a compact 800 square feet. It is created from three primary components.

The long wall creates a sheltered space on the exposed ridgeline.

The terraces lift the outdoor activity off the rocky ground and establish a stage in the landscape.

The pavilion provides strong visual connections to the landscape.

Through the seasons these elemental components provide for a varied and dramatic interaction with the western landscape. The inhabitants experience refuge and retreat as well as exposure and connection to the environment.

 

LOCATION
Kittitas Valley WA

SIZE
800 sf

PHOTOGRAPHY
Workshop AD

RECOGNITION
2023 AIA Seattle Honor Awards, Honorable Mention