asymmetrical gable roof shields wooden bunkhouse by SHED on washington island

SHED's compact two-story structure adds sleeping quarters to a family cabin.

Colby Wood edited by christina vergopoulou February 16, 2024 3 min

SHED Architecture & Design introduces Guemes Island Bunkhouse

Seattle-based SHED Architecture & Design has completed the Guemes Island Bunkhouse, a compact two-story structure overlooking the Bellingham Channel on Washington State’s Guemes Island. Positioned just uphill from a century-old log cabin, the bunkhouse offers additional sleeping quarters for the client’s family cabin, designed for rest, work, and family gatherings. Situated within the treeline rather than at the water’s edge, the wooden house prioritizes privacy, mirroring the cabin’s strategic location. Placed above a decommissioned well house, the bunkhouse addresses water sustainability by implementing a rainwater catchment and potable water system, crucial for the property’s long-term use.

asymmetrical gable roof shields wooden bunkhouse by SHED on washington island - 1 — all images by Dain Susman

bunkhouse harmonizes with the natural forest surroundings

The compact design, driven by the narrow lot and existing trees, encompasses sleeping quarters, a bathroom, a kitchenette, and a workspace. The exterior features distinct cladding: Disdero Cabin Log Siding on the lower level and 1×6 Tongue and Groove Rough Sawn Western Red Cedar Ship Cladding on the upper level, both stained black. Drawing from the rustic log cabin, the bunkhouse incorporates low-maintenance materials and built-in casework throughout. The asymmetrical gable roof references the original cabin’s traditional form while capturing water for the potable water system. For the second floor, SHED Architecture & Design arranges a U-shaped sitting area with forest views, designed for casual conversations and quiet reading, and can comfortably sleep three when needed. Flanking the social space are sleeping wings with built-in queen beds, bunk beds, and storage solutions, providing a practical yet efficient family retreat.

asymmetrical gable roof shields wooden bunkhouse by SHED on washington island - 2 — SHED Architecture & Design completes the Guemes Island Bunkhouse overlooking the Bellingham Channel

asymmetrical gable roof shields wooden bunkhouse by SHED on washington island - 3 — the compact two-story structure provides additional sleeping quarters for the client’s family cabin

asymmetrical gable roof shields wooden bunkhouse by SHED on washington island - 4 — designed for rest, work, and family gatherings, the bunkhouse stands uphill from a century-old log cabin

washington-guemes-island-bunkhouse-shed-architecture-design-designboom-1800-2 — positioned within the treeline, the bunkhouse prioritizes privacy, echoing the strategic location of the cabin

asymmetrical gable roof shields wooden bunkhouse by SHED on washington island - 5 — inspired by rustic log cabins, the bunkhouse incorporates low-maintenance materials and built-in casework

asymmetrical gable roof shields wooden bunkhouse by SHED on washington island - 6 — the second floor features a U-shaped sitting area with forest views, designed as a quiet reading spot

washington-guemes-island-bunkhouse-shed-architecture-design-designboom-1800-3 — sleeping wings flank the social space, equipped with built-in queen beds, bunk beds, and storage solutions

project info:

name: Guemes Island Bunkhouse
architect: SHED Architecture & Design | @shedarchitecture

contractor: Kaplan Homes
structural engineer: Todd Perbix
interiors: Jennie Gruss | @jenniegrussinteriordesign

location: Guemes Island, Washington, US

photography: Dain Susman | @dain_susman_photo

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