this sustainable forest studio was scavenged together

named the ‘scavenger studio’, this structure was built from a combination of reclaimed materials, ultimately forming this woodland retreat in washington state. the name, ‘scavenger studio’ evokes a mad max world, and so does its style, which can be appreciated for its minimalist yet edgy beauty. this result is contributed to by an intentional lack of finish, revealing its construction methods. additions by the client, an artist, include the plywood’s charred finish and other material choices throughout the home, which achieve this naturalistic and simplistic effect. the 693-square-foot studio has an intuitive and open plan, allowing for a creative freedom for the owner, all while being surrounded by nature.

all images by benjamin benschneider

the scheme was led by les eerkes (now of eerkes architects) while he was working as design principal at olson kundig — the project’s architect of record. a sustainable and inexpensive construction was requested by the client, a self-proclaimed activist. therefore, the construction team was tasked with seeking-out soon-to-be-demolished homes, and reusing what was in them. the dwelling is filled with refurbished products — a frankenstein house, if you will. the exterior walls are lined with plywood and the clerestory windows are made of polycarbonate panels.

the red hatch can be lowered to let in light and air

in addition, the kitchen cabinets were saved from a house the contractor was demolishing. ‘scavenger studio’ is anchored in a simple but effective way, resting on several six-footed concrete bases. these structural elements mean that the building does not tamper with the natural landscape — it sits above it on pillars like stilts. this is a nice example of a responsible project that also offers a comfortable environment for the inhabitant.

the dwelling sits on six concrete bases