The Shelter House

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JHL Design and Modern Organic Architecture craft a design destination nestled in the Oregon coast

Photos by Lincoln Barbour.

“This home was named “The Shelter House” and designed as a retreat from the physical elements of the coast, but also a peaceful place for the clients to relax, unplug, get away and appreciate the quiet from their busy lives,” says Holly Freres, principal designer at JHL Design on the design of this vacation retreat on the Oregon coast.

The living room leather sofa and chair is from Design Within Reach paired with a custom marble and glass coffee table. The artwork is by Patton Miller Leaving Madagascar.
Photos by Lincoln Barbour.

After working with the clients on prior projects, Freres knew the style and colors they gravitate towards. “Every element that we specified was something you could easily find in colors and textures in the surrounding environment,” said Freres. She worked with her husband David Horning, founder of Modern Organic Architecture to create this dreamy 2,800-square-foot escape for a busy family that desired a home where they can relax and entertain.

Kitchen barstools are by Phloem Studio, plumbing fixtures by Kallista and appliances are wolf/subzero. Photos by Lincoln Barbour.
Dining room table is custom by JHL Design; dining chairs are from Design Within Reach. BaTonga baskets from Zimbabwe accent the wall behind the dining table.
Photos by Lincoln Barbour.

The new home sits on a small ocean-front lot with height restrictions, leaving little room for an expansive footprint, however the teams were able an open space that takes full advantage of the location. “The interior concept was to capture the view and have an open floor plan,” says Freres. “Fireplaces were important to keep the idea of a cozy place to shelter. We designed a fireplace that could be enjoyed from the kitchen, dining and living room as well as the master bedroom.”

Custom bedding by JHL Design; fabric by Loro Piana. Wall sconces by Artemide. 
Photos by Lincoln Barbour.

The home’s envelope-like architecture gives the clients a unique combination of privacy while providing far-reaching views. “One specific and unique design element is the sliding steel and brass pocket door dividing the master bedroom from the more public space. Since the owners will be at the home by themselves most of the time, they wanted openness and opportunity for views.” commented Horning. Wood-clad walls and ceilings echo the organic exterior while adding architectural texture. Concrete floors add a touch of industrial edge, while providing a neutral canvas for the furnishings and fabrics.

Custom headboard by JHL Design; leather nightstand by Made Goods, Eames chair in the corner. Soaking tub by MTI and tub filler by Kallista. Sconces at bed by Apparatus.
Photos by Lincoln Barbour.
Lighting by Urban Electric; custom vanity design by JHL Design.
Photos by Lincoln Barbour.

The clients put all their faith into the teams and allowed their expertise to guide the overall design. “We knew the client well when we started the project so we were able to capture all of the elements that were important to them.” said Freres. “They were in awe of the results when they moved into the home.”

Photos by Lincoln Barbour.