Of all of the designs we have done for residence, few stick with us like Crosswater Residence in Bend, Oregon. The vision of this design was evident from the beginning–a classic western mountain cabin that feels authentic more than themed. The idea was to create family-friendly rancher’s home.
We created the rustic overtone with natural materials throughout the space: wood flooring, stone fireplaces, paneled walls, leather furniture, and hide rugs. We used a rich, warm wood to cover the floors, ceilings, furniture, and shelves and create the cabin feel. It invites company to cozy up next the fire on cold Oregon nights and sip whiskey on the rocks. The integration of different elements and materials can be very tricky. However, in this case, the fusion is wonderfully accomplished and creates a balance. The cast iron metals and hardy leathers stabilize the design. Although it is an eclectic collection, everything coexists.
The two focal points of the space are the stone fireplace and the picturesque view through the large windows. The natural materials in the room couple well with the pines outside the windows and give the owners a sense of solitude. At the same time, the windows bring in natural light and help visitors connect with the nature around them. It is an ideal mountain getaway.
Stones are embedded here and there in chimneys, entrances, walls, and exteriors where they are used as flooring. Although it deepens the old-timey atmosphere, it also gives the space a timeless elegance. The stones create a texture reminiscent of the surrounding mountains–simple, fresh, and natural.
Unlike many of our other designs, Crosswater Residence steers away from modernism and minimalism. Shelves are loaded with decor. You will find carefully placed hand-crafted vases, leather bound books, and small statues in every room. Hand-painted canvases decorate the walls with images of cowboys, horses, and Native Americans. Big pieces of furniture are seemingly mismatched but cohesive, and the runners and rugs boast intricate designs. There is not one bit of shiny chrome in sight. All of these details add to the feel and embodiment of a true western home.
In the living room, the furniture is the element that commands a lot of attention. We used big comfy leather couches that bring a masculinity to the room while maintaining its distinct style and grace. We organized the furniture to create a social space, where guests spend the evening talking to each other as though they are in their own living room. Large pieces of wood furniture make the design sturdy and unwavering.
The Crosswater Residence was a satisfying step away from modern hotel design and a reminder of a time when we valued creating our homes from the materials around us. It was this reminder that helped us to create an authentic atmosphere. We tend to think style and grace come from innovative technology and synthetic materials, but that is not always the case. Sometimes, the best vacation is a step away from the modern conveniences that make up our daily lives.
