This Firm Designs Homes That Disappear Into Scenic Landscapes

In Washington state, hundreds of islands dot the coastline off Puget Sound and in the broader Salish Sea. Ranging from the northern archipelago of the San Juans with over 170 islands, to Seattle’s neighboring Whidbey, Vashon and Bainbridge islands, there is no shortage of picturesque locales off the mainland for Washingtonians to take up residence. Over the years, Seattle-based Heliotrope Architects has honed their expertise with over 35 island homes completed and several more under construction. “My first island project as a young architect was a waterfront home on Whidbey Island for my parents,” reflects Heliotrope principal Joseph Herrin. For him, the most important design considerations have to do with the remote settings. “You have to be careful when undertaking construction projects on an island,” the architect says. “It’s about developing an understanding of natural systems and how your design will work with, rather than in opposition to, those systems.” Many of the firm’s projects integrate so well into their sites that they all but disappear, utilizing weathering materials and colors found in the landscape, and embracing forms inspired by the terrain, wind patterns and light. “If you were to cruise by one of our homes in a boat, it’s likely you would miss it completely,” Herrin says. “That’s our goal.”