Casa de las Balaustradas
Puerto Peñasco, Mexico
Elevating a cultural cliche to reveal a lost beauty
Dwelling
Singing Sands Basha Cottage
Sustainability, seaside
Client
Eddie & Nadine Basha
Location
Cannon Beach, OR
Size
4170 sq ft
Delivery Method
Design-Build
Project Team
The Cannon Beach area of Oregon boasts a rich history of homesteading dating back to 1848, with subsequent developments like the Brooklyn Camp in the late 1800s and the Presidential Streets in 1903. Over time, the evolution of cottage architecture along the coast has been marked by shifts in size, shape, and materiality. Despite these changes, vernacular construction methods have persisted, incorporating local materials like seashells, driftwood, and glass floats, which may not be as prevalent in other parts of the country.
Defined loosely by the Oregon State Historic Preservation office, classic cottage features include wood frame construction, gable roofs, overhanging eaves with exposed rafter ends, wood shingles or siding, and wood double-hung or casement windows. These elements evoke feelings of stability, freedom, authenticity, and familial warmth.
While rooted in tradition, modern construction techniques and technologies lend a contemporary aesthetic to new interpretations of these classic designs. Yet, perhaps the most enduring characteristic of historic cottage design evolution is scale. Despite being a large family, Eddie and Nadine Basha have prioritized intimacy over maximum square footage, maintaining a sense of coziness and connection within their home.
Singing Sands, in Arcadia Beach, presents a unique building opportunity with its distinctive “L” shaped building envelope, featuring a detached two-car garage. This layout has allowed for the creation of a charming private outdoor space, defined by a circular circulation pattern. The garden side of the property features a curved form, enhancing the natural beauty of the enclosed flower space, while the ocean side boasts a transparent wall that capitalizes on the breathtaking panoramic views.
Innovative design choices further optimize space utilization, with outdoor access to the guest rooms eliminating the need for additional interior hallways. Additionally, a small “crows nest” loft nestled within the main gable roof offers a secluded retreat for quiet contemplation, reading, and artistic pursuits.
Considering the existing topography, a structural retaining wall is incorporated into the northeast slope using a traditional method of forming concrete with vertical wood boards, lending a rustic charm to the landscape. Sustainable practices are integral to the design ethos of the Basha family, with a focus on rainwater collection and management, minimal energy consumption, and the use of certified sustainable materials. Ultimately, the Singing Sands cottage stands as a testament to responsible environmental design and a deep reverence for the site’s history and natural beauty, ensuring a harmonious integration within the historic seaside community.
