Simona is an interior design and décor writer for Homedit. Since 2011, she has been writing about interior design, DIY solutions, and the latest trends in home architecture.
Set in a beautiful volcanic region in Truckee, United States, the Lookout House is a wonderful retreat with a very interesting geometry. It was built here in 2018 as result of a project conducted by Faulkner Architects. The site has a 20 degree slope and it’s facing North which offers is gorgeous views as well as a good level of privacy. Volcanic sediments and large boulders set an eerie mood but also make this area look magnificent. As a result, the architects chose the focus to be on the landscape rather than the house itself. They chose a simple palette of materials such as concrete and steel for the exterior and this allows the building to blend into the natural surroundings and to look at home among the tall pines and fir trees.
The house has a simple clean exterior with muted finishesThe upper level offers a series of open and closed spaces which take full advantage of the views
The house is a collection of spaces with various degrees of privacy, set at different levels and with different orientations. The private areas consisting of the bedrooms and their en-suites are positioned into the slope. This gives them more privacy and better insulation plus it also establishes a clear and convenient spatial organization throughout the entire house. Colored glass windows reference the color of magma and add warmth and character to the rooms in a unique way. At the top of the staircase a large gathering space is revealed, with a modern fireplace, a pair of comfortable sofas and access to a terrace with a beautiful view of the forest.
The interior is also muted and simple but also very warm and invitingA variety of covered outdoor spaces and terraces allow the house to establish a strong connection with its surroundingsA minimalist and modern fireplace brings warmth to the living room and a large area rug creates a cozy outlineRed and orange glass windows introduce an unexpected dose of color into the private areas of the houseThe colored glass is a reference to magma and the site’s geologyThe colored windows also bathe the staircase is warm light and add a lot of character to the interior as a wholeThe kitchen and dining area share a large open space with a wooden ceiling, concrete walls and full height windowsThe dining area enjoys a tranquil and relaxing view of the nearby treesThe kitchen has a large island and features wooden accents for added warmth and styleThis covered terrace is a wonderful spot to admire the scenery from, relax and unwind or entertain guestsA variety of smaller lounge nooks are spread throughout the house, creating cozy spots in each areaAlthough the house is very simple and makes use of very few materials, finishes and colors, it’s also quite boldEach and every space is infused with beauty and luxury, ultimately looking very refined and elegantA combination of wood, marble and glass turns the bathroom into a soothing and welcoming spaceThe views and the beautiful surrounding landscape are the focal point of the houseThe house follows the angle of the slope, becoming one with the land and looking at home among the trees
