Last Chance Residence

Project completed during tenure at Johnston Architects. Images copyright of Benj Drummond.

Overview

Lohr Barton Residence is a 1,900-square-foot custom home with a 500-square-foot garage and 1,100-square-foot covered outdoor space in Mazama, Washington. Started under Johnston Architects, construction began in 2021 with a focus on passive house standards and a strong commitment to energy efficiency. The design plan accommodates a growing family, blending comfort with advanced performance features.

Project Goals

Achieve high energy efficiency that meets passive house targets
Create a family-friendly layout with four bedrooms and an open living-dining-kitchen area
Incorporate a protective board-formed concrete wall for slope-related safety
Establish a mix of indoor and outdoor living spaces to connect with the surrounding meadow
Integrate modern aesthetics with natural, durable materials

Design and Implementation

Layout/Structural Changes

Two wings frame a central glassy living area that opens toward a scenic meadow. One side houses a master suite and shared living zone, while the other includes bedrooms for children. A board-formed concrete wall along the hillside side acts as both barrier and visual anchor. Shed roof profiles accommodate a future solar array.

Materials and Finishes

A double-stud wall system provides improved insulation and airtightness. Warm-toned wood surfaces on the interior contrast with darker exterior cladding and accents of rusted steel. The board-formed concrete wall features a mild hue to soften its appearance. Large sliding doors connect indoor gathering areas to the covered outdoor living zone.

Key Elements
- Double-stud wall for a highly insulated thermal envelope
- Concrete wall designed to guard against rolling stones and enhance fire safety
- Covered patio for year-round outdoor gatherings and a separate hot tub area
- Thoughtful roof slopes for solar installation
- 3D modeling to test and refine material schemes, natural lighting, and views

Challenges

Balancing a desire for large windows with strict energy performance demands required careful insulation detailing. The slope behind the home led to concerns about falling debris, addressed through the prominent concrete barrier. Achieving a cohesive look that merges natural finishes with contemporary lines involved extensive collaboration between team members and the client.

Outcome

Lohr Barton Residence highlights a holistic approach that combines advanced building methods with a welcoming style. The home’s open gathering spaces and covered patios encourage an easy flow between interior and exterior living, while double-stud construction and thoughtful detailing deliver high levels of comfort and efficiency.