Case Study: House on the Cove

Seattle based architect, Ryan Stephenson created this modern home in 2017, located on Washington’s Chuckanut Bay for a spirited couple and their dog. The home reveals new character around each corner and communes organically with the surrounding landscape.

Built by Indigo Builders, nearly all of the home’s rooms look out onto the unobstructed views of the bay, coastal islands, and faraway Canada.

The project features Zola’s Classic Clad line of windows and doors, offering thermal performance that far exceed most domestic windows. This line is an excellent choice for energy-efficient projects that are not seeking the highest levels of performance, but still appreciate the beauty and durability of a fine, custom-crafted window. Featuring a 68mm deep frame and double glazing.

“How do I not ruin this?” That was architect Ryan Stephenson’s first thought when he arrived at a rural project site near Washington’s lush Larrabee State Park in the summer of 2014. Set on the coast and commanding an immense view of Bellingham Bay, the Olympic Mountains to the south, and Canada beyond the water, the plot called for a design that approached its awe-inspiring natural beauty with care. In his potential clients, a lively couple in their 50’s, Stephenson found kindred spirits. All three share an appreciation for superior craftsmanship and the humility, passion, and study that it requires. Stephenson launched his architecture firm, Stephenson Design Collective, in 2009, building up a portfolio of modern single-family homes, but a background in construction gives him a leg up in understanding the hands-on process of building a house.”

The project was highlighted ‘The Sound of Good Design’ Gray Magazine No 41 and the WA AIA ‘Home of Distinction’ 2018 shortlist.

Photography by: Andrew Pogue

Click on the cover to read the entire article, and view the Zola Windows’ installed throughout the home.

Stephenson Design Collective is a Seattle based modern design studio focused on balance through the creation of space and light. They work to understand the context and scale of daily moments to create honest and efficient spaces within the natural environment.

Founded in 2009, Stephenson Design collective has worked on projects of various scale and budget in Seattle and rural locations throughout the Pacific Northwest and the southern United States.

‍