Cheryl Heinrichs Architecture

  • Starting with a site considered unbuildable and owners committed to sustainable architecture, this contemporary home provided numerous design challenges. We overcame the first challenge by securing a Conditional Use Permit from Deschutes County that would allow a home to be built on this property.The next challenge was to reconcile requirements that seemed to oppose each other. Could we perch the home on top of a rise to maximize views, yet nestle it into the landscape to avoid conspicuousness? Would it be possible to capture the spectacular views, while leaving enough wall space to display a vast art collection?

    Yes, and yes.

    Careful siting and varied, low-slung roof lines resulted in a low-profile contemporary home that both blends into the high desert landscape and seems to dance along the hills.

    By jogging the southwest corner of the house and adding spacious windows, we captured solar heat gain in the winter and mountain views year round. Inside, the open layout showcases a magnificent art and furniture collection. Above the fireplace, a hinged painting disguises a plasma television screen. Additional artistic surprises include an angled interior wall and a hand-made front door.

    Solar hot water and radiant floor heating combine comfort with energy conservation, resulting in sustainable architecture that feels cozy and comforting. This tasteful and elegant contemporary home proves you don’t have to sacrifice style for sustainability.

    Read The Bulletin article featuring this “ArtHouse.”






  • Sustainable Features

    Energy Efficiency:
    Main rooms are located on southwest corner of the house
    Roof overhangs and awning are sized to aid in natural heating and cooling
    Insulated interior blinds help retain heat in the winter
    High performance windows
    Solar thermal system
    Natural cooling
    Excellent naturally lighting
    Excellent natural ventilation
    Energy Star appliances
    Energy efficient lighting
    In-floor radiant heat
    No skylights
    Heating system is located inside the insulated envelope

    Health:
    Minimal carpet
    Fire place is directly vented to the outdoors
    Whole house vacuum system

    Land:
    Rock dug up during constructing is used for all site walls
    Permeable paving
    Xeriscape, native, desert plantings

    Materials:
    Bamboo Flooring
    Many long lasting, zero maintenance products

    Water:
    Low-flow plumbing fixtures

a mind for building, an eye for beauty

Olympia, Washington·360-350-0628·Bend, Oregon·541-382-8914·Contact Us