whidbey farm

Located on Whidbey Island, Whidbey Farm by mw | works architecture + design was shaped in response to a site with existing turn-of-the-century farm structures, open pastures, and adjacent forest. Positioned on a low rise behind the original farm compound, the 4,420-square-foot house is organized to maintain views of the rural landscape while respecting the agricultural character of the property. The design brief called for a flexible residence that could accommodate extended family gatherings and seasonal use, serving both as a vacation home and a part-time residence throughout the year. The house is arranged around a central courtyard planted with local grasses and ferns. Its plan weaves rooms among mature cedar and fir trees, with a low stacked natural stone wall running along the perimeter to provide visual order and reference site boundaries. The exterior and interior employ a restrained palette of weathered wood, concrete, stone, and blackened steel, aiming for warmth and simplicity that reflects both the forested setting and the rural history of the area. The resulting structure is contemporary in form yet rooted in the landscape and traditions of Whidbey Island.