Case Inlet

A footbridge to retreat.

Set along the forested edge of Herron Island, this remote retreat was designed as both escape and sanctuary. Accessible only by private ferry and tucked into a steep hillside with limited cell service, the site required every detail—from logistics to layout—to be carefully considered. The home replaces an aging structure with a new build tailored to the clients’ vision: a peaceful, modern refuge that’s both elemental and refined.

Pacific Northwest materials—cedar and steel—were chosen for their resilience and their beauty in aging, weathering gracefully in the island’s wet, maritime climate. The home's entry sequence begins with a walk from the main road and parking area, followed by a timber staircase that descends through the trees and down a steep embankment. From there, a steel footbridge spans to the upper level of the house, heightening the sense of detachment. The front door, intentionally placed off-axis, slows the approach and reframes the arrival—elevating the anticipation of the views and completing the feeling of the escape.

Inside, the home is minimalist and warm, with whitewashed walls, cedar ceilings, and a fireplace anchoring the main living space. Accordion doors open the entire living area to a sweeping view of Puget Sound, where whales can occasionally be seen offshore. Window placement was carefully curated to pull the eye outward and elevate the experience of being on the beach, in the trees, and apart from the world.

Outside, a generous deck, outdoor fireplace, and pizza oven offer gathering spaces that blend comfort with landscape. Despite steep terrain and material access challenges, the build honored both site and vision—preserving existing trees and creating a retreat where the architecture quietly supports the experience of place.