Little Rabbit creek Residence
Anchorage Alaska, USA
The goal of the design was to create a home that is deeply rooted-in-nature and that would feel cozy and welcoming in its multiple functions. The spatial challenge was to create an environment which did not feel empty for two people, yet also didn’t feel overcrowded during family visits.
To achieve this, the design creates three different living nodes connected through a central stair case. Each space offers a different way to connect with nature by opening up different vantage points and taking advantage of changes in elevation. The design process took a holistic approach between the configuration of spaces, the feel and materiality of the home, as well as the more functional aspects such as energy conservation, structure, and construction. The main floor is the “every-day” home. The focal space for the floor is the great room, its open design allows for interaction between the many activities that can be housed in the room. The design not only encourages a dialogue between the occupiers, but also a connection with the exterior. Large south facing windows provide beautiful views of the property and Little Rabbit Creek. The entry hall and stairway core provide a buffer between the public area of the floor and the more private Master Suite across the hall.The second floor is the guest floor. As one comes up the stairs, the space opens to a living area intended for play. The play space and the two bedrooms in this floor take advantage of their elevation to open up to the eastern and western landscapes. Large western windows allow for beautiful views of the ocean, while more intimate eastern openings allow for views of the mountains above the tree canopies.The den is at the bottom of the stair case. It’s partial submersion into the landscape creates a quieter space for TV watching, reading, or writing.