Washington State's San Juan Islands — three hours north of Seattle — offer lush campgrounds, orca sightings, and lively harbor towns. Basically, it's the perfect place to disconnect. Which is why we're fully envious of the owner of this 500-square-foot cabin, designed by Seattle-based firm Olson Kundig as a private writers retreat.
In order to build a cabin that could complement the scenic landscape, the team created a glass house with floor-to-ceiling windows. Three exterior wood panels on each side of the home drop down to reveal the windows and can be used as decks. Inside, the cottage features a rotating fireplace and Murphy bed, which make the setup extra-customizable.
"Parts of the cabin are intentionally exposed, and others are protected, enclosed, and intimate," said Tom Kundig, lead designer on the project.
While the shutters offer privacy and shade, they also have a more functional purpose: The clients wanted a home they could easily secure when not in use.
The modest cabin consists of a single room, a bathroom, and a kitchenette.
The midsection of the home features rectangular windows that allow nature on both sides to remain viewable.
The furnishings are simple and modern — perfect to decrease distraction on a writers retreat.
In the living room, a vintage Knoll sofa was reupholstered in Glant fabric.
The oak floors feature a black steel inlaid detail that accentuates the structure's linear aesthetic.
