robin’s unfeasibly expensive dream homes

Grzywinski + Pons – D utchess House No. 1 in Millerton, New York

The house was conceived as country home initially used as a complement to and reprieve from their apartment in the city that could ultimately evolve into a primary residence. […] Another request was to create a place that felt very open to its beautiful surroundings yet could be battened down and secured during any extended periods when it was unoccupied. [Grzywinski + Pons] wanted to make sure that the house felt very warm and happy – a truly convivial environment – while unabashedly modern and durable. The natural environment is the star of the show and each room or interior space is predicated on celebrating that. – ArchDaily

Miller Hull Architecture – Davis Residence in Bellingham, Washington

This 1400 sq. ft main house and guest house/garage is located on a heavily wooded cliff site with views out over the San Juan Islands of Washington State. […] The concept marries a long gently sloping roof form containing the kitchen, entry and studio with a vertical tower containing the living room and master bedroom above.

Olson Kundig Architecture – Delta Shelter in Mazama, Washington

This 1,000 square-foot weekend cabin, basically a steel box on stilts, can be completely shuttered when the owner is away. Situated near a river in a floodplain, the 20’ x 20’ square footprint rises three stories and is topped by the living room/kitchen. Large, 10’ x 18’ steel shutters can be closed simultaneously using a hand crank.

Miller Hull Architecture – Marquand Retreat in Eastern Washington

This weekend retreat faces down into a beautiful river valley rimmed by basalt cliffs. The owner challenged Miller Hull to construct a limited, two room program using materials that were resistant to fire, wind, and intruders. A simple geometric form composed of clearly articulated materials was used to produce a building that is truly “western” in character without being nostalgic.