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The single-volume home has been designed to appear to float over the lot on its deck. Ryan upgraded the existing foundation to support its passive design. "Originally, I wanted to make the whole house powered with wood pellets," he says. "But I decided against shoveling pellets in the snow. I'll get weird in a little bit less of a cold climate."

Floor Plan of 8 Tree 8 by Ana Williamson Architect

"Flexibility, resilience, and joy were essential ingredients,

Williamson and Hua aimed for an indoor-outdoor experience that could be enjoyed day and night.

The stairs lead to a loft with a bed for visiting guests.

The ADU features a small kitchenette for visiting guests, work breaks, and relaxing cups of tea.

"My favorite space is probably the breezeway, where I can fully appreciate the majestic trees and feel a deep connection to nature,

"Because the site is almost completely under tree cover, there was initial concern about the interiors being too dark,

The front of the property was intentionally made to have a small scale so that the towering redwood trees would be more visible to the neighborhood.

"There was excitement about the site and the possibilities—that excitement was infectious,

An abundance of windows brings the outdoors in, which was a leading priority of the project.

"The family room faces the backyard, which has smaller trees, creating a cozy and zen-like atmosphere,

The owners' love of Sea Ranch style inspired the architecture of their home, which surrounds a courtyard protecting three large redwoods.

The renovation added two bathrooms, a large bedroom, a laundry room, and a workshop.

In Seattle’s Greenwood neighborhood, architect Tiffany Bowie built an efficient house for her father, Dave, a retired engineer. A prototype system by Kirio monitors the home’s energy use. Shou sugi ban cladding in a herringbone pattern provides a striking backdrop.

The renovation created space for a new entry foyer, separated from the living room by a wall with a large interior window-like opening.

Also in the foyer, beside a wall of glass that brings light into the living/dining area, is storagefor coats, bags and shoes.