- Project: Country Garden House
- Architect: Olson Kundig Architects
- Location: United States, Portland, Oregon
- Year: 2020
- Area: 492 m2
- Photography: Jeremy Bittermann
A Modern Homestead Surrounded by Nature
Tucked into a densely wooded site near Portland, Oregon, the Country Garden House by Olson Kundig is a warm, nature-integrated retreat for a multi-generational family. With 5,300 square feet of living space wrapped in reclaimed barnwood, this home draws inspiration from classic farm buildings and greenhouses—melding modern comfort with rustic charm.
Designed to maximize views of lush gardens and rolling hills, the house embraces its natural surroundings with an open, light-filled layout and carefully framed views from every room.
Greenhouse-Inspired Form and Function
Clad in reclaimed wood and topped with a pitched roof, the main volume of the house evokes the timeless character of agricultural structures, while expansive gridded glazing brings in ample daylight. High transom windows at each end of the central form allow natural light to spill into the home, enhancing the connection between inside and out.
The entry sequence begins with a direct view through the living room toward the forested hillside beyond—a visual link that introduces the home’s fluid relationship with nature from the first step indoors.
A Thoughtful, Family-Friendly Layout
The interior plan separates private and public zones via a long gallery-style corridor, organizing the home around functionality and flow. Private bedrooms are located on one side, while the main living areas—including the kitchen, dining, and great room—occupy the other, with each space designed to interact directly with the gardens outside.
The home’s material palette draws from the surrounding forest: textured wood, stone, and earth-toned finishes create a seamless dialogue between interior and exterior. In the main room, exposed timber ceilings add warmth and a refined rustic feel, anchoring the space with a sense of timelessness.
Outdoor Living in a Garden Setting
One of the defining characteristics of Country Garden House is its emphasis on outdoor living. Multiple terraces, patios, and garden paths are easily accessible from all main spaces, offering ample room for gatherings and quiet moments alike.
Whether dining alfresco beneath the trees or relaxing beside flower-filled beds, the home provides a serene platform to enjoy Oregon’s natural beauty year-round.
Olson Kundig’s Mastery of Site-Responsive Design
Country Garden House reflects Olson Kundig’s continued dedication to designing homes that respect their environment, support family life, and offer emotional depth. Blending craftsmanship, simplicity, and sensitivity to place, the project is yet another strong example of the firm’s signature approach to architecture that is both modern and grounded in tradition.
