Trestle House in Seattle, Washington by Tyler Engle Architects

Article source: Tyler Engle Architects

Challenges of a steeply sloping site and a tight budget were remedied by the use of innovative structural systems and modular construction. Called the “Trestle House” due to the foundation system, economy was achieved by the use of a 12’ x 16’ grid creating a short structural span and standard 4’ x 8’ sheets of plywood which is a modern reinterpretation of the traditional Japanese Tatami mat module.

Image Courtesy © Benjamin Benschneider

• Architects: Tyler Engle Architects
• Project: Trestle House
• Location: Seattle, Washington
• Photography: Benjamin Benschneider

Image Courtesy © Benjamin Benschneider

Modulation and Economy

Challenges of a steeply sloping site and a tight budget were remedied by the use of innovative structural systems and modular construction. Called the “Trestle House” in reference to the foundation system of piers to achieve a conventional building platform economically.  Further efficiency was achieved by the use of a 12’ x 16’ grid creating a short structural span and standard 4’ x 8’ sheets of plywood which becomes a western reinterpretation of the traditional Japanese Tatami mat module.

Every design decision followed an intentional path from locating the house lightly on the site with minimal impact on the native forest, to a rigorous structural system that provides order and calmness.   On the interior, a tree-house like view of the evergreen canopy is balanced by south-facing clerestory windows which flood the house with daylight while maintaining privacy from the street.   Thus, prospect and refuge are balanced to create a Zen-like introversion.

Designed for a retired couple who are “empty nesters”,  this low-maintenance house serves as their home base as they travel the world.   With a goal of exceeding the client’s objectives of simplicity, economy and timelessness; we created an architecture that responds to the ever-changing northwest light.

Image Courtesy © Benjamin Benschneider

Image Courtesy © Benjamin Benschneider

Image Courtesy © Benjamin Benschneider

Image Courtesy © Benjamin Benschneider

Image Courtesy © Benjamin Benschneider

Image Courtesy © Benjamin Benschneider

Image Courtesy © Tyler Engle Architects

Image Courtesy © Tyler Engle Architects

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Tags: USA, Washington

Categories: House, Residential

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