Private retreat upstairs, space for boys below

Sunset, July, 1989

Two objectives shaped the design of this addition in Lake Oswego, Oregon. The owners needed a private second-story retreat for themselves, and more space below for their boys. They also wanted to add visual interest to the exterior of their flat-backed house.

Architects Benner Stange Associates and contractors Olsen and Jones made the most of daylight and lake views by wrapping the room with glass. Two large skylights bring more light deep into the room. Outside, use of the same siding pattern blends the new part with the old, and stepped walls and hipped roof planes add interest.