The client wanted to explore the possibility of constructing a new ADU and detached studio space on a steeply sloped, densely vegetated site. The area of construction is bounded by a retaining wall on the upper slope - supporting the yard above - and a street front at the lower slope. Our solution was to celebrate the topography by creating a structure that also serves as an extension of the surrounding landscape. First, a linear bar burrows into the hillside, merging with the existing topography. The excavated footprint is in turn relocated to the roof, where it integrates with the landscape and blurs the distinction between built and natural. Finally, stairs descend from the upper retaining wall and enter through the roof onto a shared terrace that bisects the studio and the ADU. The stairs maintain the cadence of the descending hillside and continue down to a parking pad bounded by new retaining walls.
LOCATION
SW Hills Neighborhood | Portland, OR
SIZE
ADU: 750 SF
Studio: 225 SF
STATUS
Design