Seeking to strengthen their connection to the town of Mazama and hiking trails in the Methow Valley, our clients purchased a 1970s residence surrounded by Sunny Jim Butte, Robinson Mountain, Last Chance Mountain, and the Goat Wall – all signature Methow landmarks that provide incomparable views. Unfortunately, the home reflected the era of the energy crisis, with small windows that blocked sightlines and did not celebrate its beautiful surroundings.

Johnston Architects was selected to reimagine the property, to connect its indoor spaces to the great outdoors. Opening up the house on two sides, JA composed a series of windows that reveal the amazing scenery of the valley. A heated window seat runs the length of the living room, offering a front-row view. A double-sided fireplace separates living and dining spaces, while maintaining an openness and flow, and is flanked by shelving that modulates the transition from dining to living while framing a beautiful view looking out into the valley. The garage and master bedroom suite form a sheltered outdoor refuge protected from down-valley winds. Extensive great room windows look across the courtyard and provide views of up-valley mountains, framing the environment as dynamic art. 

The homeowners sought to create a nature-focused oasis where they could live, relax, entertain and find a peaceful connection to the outdoors, and they did. Blending an elegant indoor experience with the astonishing outdoors of Washington State’s upper Methow Valley, our thorough understanding of indoor/outdoor living shines in the stunning Hancock Fields remodel.