Project Details

Designed to be in harmony with nature, the Olson Cabin began its existence as a 14’ x 14’ bunk house built in 1959. A series of renovations since then (1981, 1997 and 2003) has seen the expansion and addition of several interconnected rooms all true to a simple design aesthetic. The cabin is intentionally subdued in color and texture, allowing the lush natural surroundings to take precedence. The living room’s large window not only frames the view of the waterfront and Mt. Rainier beyond, but also visually blends the indoors and outdoors.

Related Works

• Northwest Family Retreat
• Glass Apartment
• Chicken Point Cabin
• Marin County Residence
• Rolling Huts
• Market Apartment
• Lake House

Recognition

Interiors

The cabin is about living simply while enjoying the luxury of the natural landscape. Indoor spaces are intended to be one with the landscape. Colors and materials of nature come right into the house: the rug is the color of sand, the wooden furniture is like driftwood and the fabrics on the chairs and sofa recall the water and sky. The centerpiece is a bowl of shells found on the beach. Spaces are designed to be multi-use. An office occupies an alcove behind the sofa. The sofa becomes a bed. Coffee tables are wooden boxes that hold books and games. Mid-century antique chairs are modern classics created during the era when the original cabin was built. Recent additions designed by Jim Olson, like wooden coffee tables and a simple chair, are used both inside and outside. The interior of the space is an extension of an architectural philosophy and expresses the spirit of the site and its history.