Sidecar

Mountain Modern Retreat

Sidecar was shaped around the client’s desire for a mountain retreat that felt both familiar and contemporary. With that in mind, the design brings the surrounding landscape into the home through a warm, natural material palette, including wood siding, exposed heavy timber, and interior finishes with similar tones. This balance between traditional and modern continues on the exterior, as simple gabled forms meet low sloped rooflines that respond to the site and daily use. Large openings at the main living spaces also connect the home to the wooded setting, reinforcing the home’s role as both a retreat and a place for everyday living.

Side Car Mountain House Patio, Cle Elum, Washington, Custom Home Design by BellCraft Architects

Side Car Mountain House Living Room, Cle Elum, Washington, Custom Home Design by BellCraft Architects

Side Car Mountain House Schematic, Cle Elum, Washington, Custom Home Design by BellCraft Architects

Early Concepts

“Sidecar started with the idea of balancing traditional mountain architecture with a more modern way of living. The gabled form gives the house a familiar presence, while the lower rooflines and large openings help it feel more contemporary and connected to the surroundings. We wanted the home to feel comfortable and rooted, but still fresh in the way it is experienced day to day.”

Brian Palmberg, Principal

Side Car Mountain House Exterior, Cle Elum, Washington, Custom Home Design by BellCraft Architects

Side Car Mountain House Stairs, Cle Elum, Washington, Custom Home Design by BellCraft Architects

Side Car Mountain House Diagram, Cle Elum, Washington, Custom Home Design by BellCraft Architects

Balanced Living

The plan is shaped around a simple relationship between gather and repose. To the east, the main living spaces reside among the vaulted, one-story volume, encouraging moments of interaction and gathering. Alongside it, the two-story volume is reserved for quieter rooms and more private moments of retreat. With circulation running between them, these zones remain connected to each other and the outside spaces beyond.