false bay writer's cabin

false bay writer's cabin by olson kundig architects. san juan island, washington state.

the cabin is five hundred square feet & is a private writers retreat & guest cottage. located on san juan island, washington, the owners wanted the cabin to feel contacted to its setting, the climate, the wildlife & views. they also needed a structure that could be easily secured when not in use. the cabin was designed as a glass house surrounded by three wooden slat decks that can be raised by a hydraulic system of wires, rope, pivoting sheaves & lead blocks, that serves as shutters. when open, the shutter decks are outdoor living spaces; when closed they secure the cabin. the fireplace rotates 180 degrees to be enjoyed indoors or out. an inverted roof with a deep overhang forces water to drain to the rear of the cabin.