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Halo is a restrained yet playful architectural project designed by
Graypants on the shores of one of Washington State’s San Juan
Islands.. Strict parameters maintained by the zoning code were
reimagined as opportunities to be creative and maximize the
existing unique but small footprint.
Halo was initially conceived of as a home office, but as the client
used the realized space, it gradually became a personal retreat. For
the homeowner, this meant a slower pace and an openness to more
reflection–Halo became an anchor for that transformation–a spiritual
work space that is monastic without being religious.
An exploration of building-as-light, Halo blurs the lines between
nature and structure. Honoring the site, the design responds directly
to the landscape, creating a sense that Halo has been there for a
long time. Surrounding landscaping welcomes and touches Halo,
reaching up to the edges of the steel and glass.The small space
attempts to maximize the experience–not of itself, but of the place:
the nature, the light, the water.
Halo contains surprisingly few prominent fixtures in an attempt to
allow the building itself to become the central fixture. A circular,
domed skylight creates an anchoring center, offering connection to
Halo’s surroundings from five sides–bringing in natural light during
the day, and sending a warm, haloed glow into the trees at night.
