Click on any of the photos below to view a larger version.

At the entry, the mirror, wood, and stone combine to create the illusion of the outdoors being integrated into the interior.

The use of mirrors and wood helps identify this washroom door and blend it into the surrounding millwork

This pool table was custom designed and crafted for the owners, as was the millwork in the surrounding billiards room.

Like the pool table in the photo above, this staircase lends a very contemporary feel to the heavily Arts and Crafts influenced design.

Curved glass and millwork both defines its space and invites people into the dining room.

Curved glass and millwork both defines its space and invites people into the dining room.

This photo captures the essence of the renovation, to create a home that appears to grow out of its environment.

The pathway leading to the main entry uses natural materials and patterns to further the goal of creating an synergy between artifice and environment.

The entry features mirrors, which appear to bring the home's natural setting into the home itself.

What can you say about a six year renovation? Artwood Design has had the pleasure and privilege of working on this single family home surrounded by huge firs and cedars, just off the water of Finlayson Arm.

The renovation began in 1999 and is expected to complete this year. The renovation has entailed a complete interior and exterior overhaul, including landscaping. All elements of the renovation have been designed and executed by Artwood Design, with the exception of glazing and steel cabinetry.

It was important to remain true to the initial design goals for this project which were established early in the process between the designer and the owners. This house should appear to be “born” of its natural surroundings and as much as possible, uses indigenous materials. We also attempted to achieve a unique architectural vernacular which combines influences from the Japanese aesthetic and the architecture of Frank Lloyd Wright.

The strength of our company (Artwood Design Ltd.) is based on a small group of dedicated craftsmen (and women), designers and woodworkers. We chose to challenge our skills and design ingenuity at every turn. We also wanted to explore the concept of using highly crafted natural wooden components to create a unique and dramatic architectural statement – both on the exterior facades of the house and within the interior membrane. This would very much be an artistic approach to architecture.

Vertical grain Douglas fir would become a large part of our “palette”. A modern, sometimes minimal approach was taken as each detail was planned and then executed in the Artwood shop. The strong, dramatic lines and shapes within this “composition” would reflect the forest in which this house is nested – on steep rocky terrain – just above the ocean.

In a way, we are paying our respect to the forest, acknowledging our obligation to use this extraordinary natural material carefully and with great skill. We see all of our work as a kind of “joint venture (pardon the pun) between ourselves and nature. We acknowledge the responsibility that goes with the privilege of working with all of the materials that nature has provided.

There is recognition that a kind of “beautiful conspiracy” has indeed taken place on this site. Nature seems to flow through the house – the space plan that meanders over the 10,000 sq. ft. seems to invite nature into the house while providing a sense of shelter and intimacy. Every line and every shape has been borrowed from the forest and surrounding terrain.

Above all, it is important to note this project is the fruition of a wonderful working relationship between the client and the designer. We were encouraged to think outside the box and to propose unique aesthetic solutions while working within a framework that would provide functional living spaces. The cooperation and support of Mr. & Mrs. Knott and their significant participation in the design process are reflected throughout this magnificent home.