Mark Gunderson Designed Residence
Mark Gunderson Residence at Eagle Mountain Lake
The site is a wooded bluff which slopes thirty-five feet to the lake below and included an existing boat dock. After considerable discussion regarding the clients interest in boats, boatbuilding and wood construction techniques ( Shinto and Shaker joinery ) a concept was derived which placed two wood-sheathed volumes at 90 degrees to one another upon sandstone plinths which continued existing curved retaining walls into the house form.
The geometry and inherent construction grid ( 4'x4'x4' ) utilized were established relative to a large circle whose work point became the spring source for an entry fountain. This fountain, 1' wide, 1' deep and 40' long, is intended as a "slice" of the lake's edge "lifted" uphill to serve as a preface to the house/site and as a kind of apology for blocking the view of the lake from the entrance to the site.
The materials employed are vertical mahogany siding, cedar decks and trellis, sandstone, reinforced concrete and stainless steel. Cabinet work is flush-overlay, rift-cut maple with granite tops and concealed hinges. The floors and frame and panel doors are of red oak.
Circulation is a loop formed with one exterior stair and one interior stair which accommodates the twelve foot level change between the two floors.
The upper level contains garage, graphics studio, master suite and a covered deck. Clerestory windows provide north light to these spaces.
The lower level consists of one large volume ( 16' x 60' x 18' tall ) as Living, Dining and Entry and is served by the Kitchen to the west. The south and east walls of this room are entirely glazed to provide a panoramic engagement with the site and its fine lake views. A north wing at this level includes the Library, Guest bedroom and bath; all with their own views to the lake and exterior trellised walk.
A cedar deck lies alongside the east facade as a kind of "shadow" of this lower volume and becomes an exterior "living room".
