Earth-sheltered home
Milwaukie, Oregon
Pacific Northwest Marine climate
Willamette River Watershed
o preserve the setting of the historic mansion
only steps away- and to fully use this property –
this new home is nestled into the hillside with an
earth roof.
Configured to get maximum south sunlight through
south windows and rooftop sunscoops. Open to the
west side forest to expansive views of the
Willamette River. (The forest shades the west
exposure.)
Universal design – all areas wheelchair accessible –
for seniors who want to live independently.
Maximum interior flexibility – the only interior
structure is robust timber posts. In the future, walls
can easily be reconfigured many ways.
Sweet pleasures – bright window seats, piano
alcove, high efficiency fireplace/woodstove,
delightful central kitchen, craft room, entry thru a
generous sheltered vestibule room.
Earth–covered roof designed to support
native grasses and shrubs
Passive solar south windows and south facing
roof sunscoops
Colored patterned concrete floor for thermal mass
Natural ventilation – cross and stack effects
Balanced natural daylighting – even though deep
in the earth
Designed for multi-generational use –
especially seniors, with special attention to
durability and low maintenance