Five-year farmhouse transformation: a labor of love and global sourcing
Outside Portland, Oregon, a five-year journey to build a Pacific Northwest farmhouse unfolded, a testament to deliberate design and a commitment to timelessness. The project, documented by photographer Aaron Leitz and detailed by architecture firm KG Architecture and interior designer Jessica Helgerson, wasn't about speed; it was about crafting a home deeply rooted in its surroundings.
The sprawling 50-acre site, untouched since before World War II, presented a unique challenge. Instead of rushing into construction, Helgerson and architect Yianni Doulis employed drone surveys to meticulously map the forest canopy, carefully considering how the placement of the house would interact with the existing landscape. This methodical approach—a stark contrast to the current trend of rapid renovations—allowed them to prioritize harmony with nature.
A bespoke compound rooted in the region
The final result is a three-structure compound – a main house, pool house, and barn – designed to age gracefully within its forested setting. The architectural language favors natural materials: shingle roofs, copper detailing, wood cladding, and stone bases, all chosen to weather and blend seamlessly with the Pacific Northwest environment. The clients envisioned a farmhouse that felt intrinsically connected to the region, with interiors prioritizing durability and a self-sufficient lifestyle.
While the primary residence ultimately expanded to 10,000 square feet with five bedrooms and seven bathrooms, the interior design championed simplicity. Helgerson and the clients embraced a “less is more” philosophy, opting for a sturdy, straightforward aesthetic devoid of excessive ornamentation. This commitment to simplicity, however, demanded considerable intentionality.
To infuse the pared-down interiors with warmth and depth, Helgerson embarked on a two-week sourcing trip to France. A remarkable 60% of the furniture was acquired during this journey, encompassing everything from antique French pieces unearthed in Paris, Marseille, and L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue to carefully selected items from Provençal antique villages. This expedition became a vital element in constructing an environment rich with history and character.
The French acquisitions provided a necessary counterbalance to the clean lines of the new construction, layering texture and history within the space. Vintage pieces were artfully interwoven with contemporary designs, creating interiors that felt collected and lived-in rather than staged. A custom dining table crafted by California craftsman Jacob May, for instance, appeared to have been discovered in a European flea market, perfectly embodying the desired aesthetic.
The project's deliberate pace also extended to the exterior, where materials were carefully selected to complement the surrounding forest. Thermory Benchmark ash was chosen for the barn’s cladding, ensuring a graceful aging process. The overall design prioritized longevity and a connection to the land, aiming for a timeless quality that transcends fleeting trends. The attention to detail is evident in every corner, from the custom-designed vanities to the carefully curated lighting fixtures.
The compound's layout evokes a small village, with the pool terrace serving as a central gathering spot. The poolhouse, furnished with vintage Guillerme et Chambron sofas and pendants from Helgerson’s collaboration with Roll & Hill, offers a space for relaxation and socializing. The journey wasn't just about building a house; it was about crafting a legacy.
The meticulous planning and dedication to sourcing unique pieces resulted in a home that is both beautiful and deeply personal. It's a testament to the power of patience and the enduring appeal of thoughtful design – a space designed not just for today, but for generations to come.