Building a dwelling or any structure in the middle of the woods requires meticulous planning. Not only do you need to consult with the local zoning department, but also figure out the logistics of materials, labor, and equipment. However, if the client is open to the idea, some architects will recommend something close to a turnkey affair. Maybe, it could turn out like the Whidbey Puzzle Prefab.
This fascinating endeavor by Wittman Estes approaches things with care for the location’s lush surroundings. The site takes us to Washington state’s Whidbey Island. Sources confirm the construction follows eco-friendly practices to ensure the existing ecosystem is not affected. From what we can tell, it also incorporates hints of tiny home living.
Residences of a modest size often showcase the ingenuity of the studio responsible for the project. The trick is to draft a blueprint with an optimal layout to accommodate essential amenities and a few extras. The Whidbey Puzzle Prefab, meanwhile, features multiple units connected via covered cedar wood decks.
The exterior is clad in timber with full-height glazing on some sections to illuminate the interiors naturally by day. Recessed lighting casts a soft glow to enhance the coziness of its volumes. Wood also appears on the ceiling, walls, and floors to establish a cohesive motif with the forest.
Other notable sustainability elements include a 4.1 kW solar setup, hydronic heating, and hydronic cooling. Elsewhere, a rainwater collection tank relies on filters to supply clean water for irrigation of the indoor greenhouse. The Whidbey Puzzle Prefab also relies on a smart home system to actively monitor energy consumption and climate control.
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Images courtesy of Andrew Pogue/Wittman Estes
