MANZANITA ON FIRST
An Oregon Coast retreat, in the heart of Manzanita
DESIGN TEAM
Jeff Guggenheim, Jenny Guggenheim
PARTNERS
Legend Homes, PLI Systems
PRESS
Luxe Magazine Feature: Catching a Wave
November/December ‘18, Pg. 272-283
Elle Decor.com
Jan 2020
PHOTOGRAPHY
Haris Kenjar
See construction and progress photos on our Instagram #manzanitaonfirst
This ground-up ocean view home is designed to serve a multi-generational family on weekends and holidays and is planned in such a way that one level living will be possible as the family ages. Located on a dune in central Manzanita, significant site preparation and foundation work was necessary to prepare the site for the new home.
“Manzanita, Oregon, holds a special place in Jeff and Jenny Guggenheim’s hearts. The Portland-based couple–he’s an architect and she’s a designer–spent their honeymoon in the coastal city and return often, and Jeff has surfed there countless times. Those experiences helped inform the design of the vacation home they created here for longtime clients. “Frequent visits to the area have taught us a lot about the climate at the coast during different times of the year,” says Jeff. “As a lifelong surfer, I know a good deal about the wind, rain and sun here. These are all things we considered while building the house.””
Aesthetically, our goal to create a warm, hospitable coastal vibe without stepping into the territory of “beach house” was met by layering various textures and limiting the palette to just a few key color stories. The result is comfortable yet tailored interior serving children and adults alike. Inserting materials like handmade tile, custom woven light fixtures, custom-crafted solid wood furniture give this project rich detailing, while outdoor rated fabrics and easy-care surfaces makes it robust. The exterior is clad is Eastern White Cedar which will naturally age to a beautiful pale silver tone to compliment the local Basalt stone cladding at the base of the home.
““Although everything has substance, nothing is too precious. This is a place where sandy feet, bathing suits and pillow forts are welcome,” Jenny says.”
The central stair acts as a thread, weaving through each level and creating a visual connection between floors. An elevator is included as a means for carrying groceries to the third-floor kitchen and will aid in future one-level living. Embracing unpredictable Oregon coastal weather, we created a window wall that opens up to the ocean view while situated under an extra deep eave for rain protection. The kitchen, dining, and living spaces harmoniously blend together as one, with a strong connection to the ocean view and breezes.
“In addition to the unique location and the thoughtful design and detailing, the Guggenheims say the clients made this project one to remember. “They let us develop a vision for the house and follow it,” Jenny says. “They trusted us and our process, and the result is something really special.” Now Manzanita, a destination beloved by the architect and designer, is also a cherished retreat for the homeowners.
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