Many building sites have an obstacle or a challenge. This site’s only challenge was to capture the rolling palouse prairie from every angle. This view-oriented approach led us to develop a linear arrangement of open spaces with windows along each side. The exterior of the house blends well into this environment with subtle colors and natural wood siding. The interior, at just over 3700 square feet, continues the use of natural materials and warm colors. With an emphasis on durability and character, we chose natural fir for the cabinets, doors, windows and ceilings and natural slate for most of the flooring to complement the granite fireplace. The high vaulted ceiling spaces are balanced with wood and steel beams making the scale of the space very comfortable.



Completed in 2005, this project represents an average size rural contemporary house. However, this anything-but-ordinary 3 bedroom 2 ½ bath ranch-style house provides an uncommon setting for the client to enjoy their horses and dogs out on the prairie.