The Rimrock house

The Rimrock private residence in Spokane, Washington sits on the edge of a cliff which forms a natural boundary with the plateau fronting it, and perfectly describes this very comfortable, livable work of art.

Designed by Olson Kundig Architects the T shaped house is not an intrusion upon the pine covered land as the eons-old, animal trail over which the house is located was included as a crucial design element. The living area is built over the wash ensuring that forest animals – making their way from the high forest plateau to the Spokane River 300 feet below – are not in any way impeded while the occupants of the house are given a one-of-a-kind view of this ancient, animal-kingdom rite.

The wide, untreated steel, many windowed staircase leads to the family’s private retreat of bedrooms and a personal living space which are more enclosed from the elements, with fewer windows, allowing its occupants respite when the weather turns inclement. The whole space is very sculptural, a feat which is fitting since its owners are big art collectors, especially of the work of local art.