It’s tucked into the eastern slopes of the Cascades, Lake Chelan’s mountain setting is somewhat reminiscent of Lake Como. With its 50-mile stretch of crystalline water framed by snow-dusted peaks, the region offers more than 300 days of sunshine a year. Once known as a quiet agricultural hub, Chelan has transformed into a premier destination for design-savvy homeowners and investors. With over forty wineries, boutique shopping, and a booming luxury real estate market, this lakeside community combines recreation, refinement, and architectural opportunity like few places in the West. Sunshine, Wine, and Year-Round Play While Puget Sound often sits under grey skies, Chelan basks in consistent sun. The climate supports endless outdoor adventure—boating, parasailing, fishing, kayaking—as well as a thriving wine industry. Since its designation as an American Viticultural Area (AVA), Chelan has become home to 40+ tasting rooms and hundreds of acres of vines. For homeowners, this means more than a vacation spot—it’s a lifestyle destination that blends recreation with culture, making it ideal for second homes and retreat properties. Elevated Estate Living Chelan’s luxury market is quickly catching up to destinations like Aspen or Sun Valley. Lakefront estates here showcase vaulted ceilings, expansive glazing, and indoor-outdoor spaces that celebrate the landscape. Recent sales range from $1 million for modern lake-view homes to more than $10 million for custom waterfront estates. The trend is clear: design-forward architecture that captures natural beauty commands a premium. Designing With the Landscape At modFORM, we know that great architecture in Chelan starts with site orientation and sensitivity to the land. Lakeside projects demand designs that maximize views while respecting privacy and the natural setting. Features like multi-level living spaces, floating staircases, and high-performance glazing allow homes to feel both expansive and efficient. Sustainable strategies—such as high recycled-content materials and advanced insulation—ensure year-round comfort, from snowy winters to sun-drenched summers. The result: homes that feel timeless, rooted in the environment yet thoroughly modern. A Four-Season Retreat Chelan sits just 200 miles from Seattle—far enough to feel like a true getaway, yet close enough for weekend escapes. Beyond wine and water sports, residents enjoy boutique shopping, golf, hiking, biking, and nearby snow sports. The area’s four-season appeal and limited housing stock make lakefront estates not only a lifestyle investment but also a strong financial one. Build Your Chelan Vision If you’re dreaming of a modern estate that reflects Chelan’s unique blend of sun, water, and wine country, modFORM LLC can help bring it to life. Our team specializes in bespoke architecture that frames panoramic views, enhances livability, and respects the natural landscape. Contact us today to explore how we can design your vision of high-end living in Lake Chelan.

Designing and building a custom home is one of the most exciting projects you can take on — but it’s also a process that takes time. Understanding the timeline upfront helps you plan realistically and enjoy the journey without feeling rushed. At modFORM, we guide you through every step, from first sketches to move-in day. On average, you can expect the entire process to take 20 to 26 months . While that might sound like a long time, each phase plays a critical role in making sure your home is thoughtfully designed, precisely built, and ready to last for decades. Design + Planning --- Phase 1: Design (≈ 6 Months) The design phase sets the foundation for your entire project. We break this stage into two parts: Schematic Design & Design Development (≈ 3 Months): *   This is where the creative magic happens. Together, we explore layouts, materials, and aesthetics to shape a home that matches your vision, needs, and budget. Construction Documents & Permit Prep (≈ 3 Months): *   Once the design is finalized, we develop detailed construction drawings and coordinate with structural engineers and consultants to ensure your home meets building codes and is structurally sound. By the end of this phase, you’ll have a fully realized plan and all the technical documents needed for permit submission. --- Phase 2: Permitting  (6–8 Weeks) In Chelan and Douglas counties, permit review typically takes 6 to 8 weeks , though timing can vary depending on the season and project complexity. If permits are approved before late summer or early fall, we aim to break ground quickly so we can finish excavation and foundation work before winter. --- Phase 3: Construction  (12–18 Months) This is where your home comes to life. The construction timeline depends on: * Home size & complexity * Site conditions * Labor and material availability * Seasonal weather In North Central Washington, framing can often continue through the winter unless temperatures dip into the single digits, which can briefly slow progress. --- The Big Picture When you put all the phases together — design, permitting, and construction — you’re looking at 20 to 26 months from start to finish . It’s a significant investment of time, but the result is worth the wait: a home that is fully customized to your lifestyle, beautifully modern, and built to stand the test of time.

When planning a new build, addition, or major remodel, one of the first questions that comes up is: do you need a site survey to get a building permit? The answer depends on your jurisdiction. In many areas, a site survey is required by law . In others, it may not be mandatory, but it’s still extremely valuable for both the property owner and the architect. A detailed site survey can streamline design decisions, prevent costly mistakes, and make the permitting process smoother. Most building departments require a site plan , usually prepared by an architect. A site plan is a scaled aerial drawing of your property, showing existing structures and the location of proposed new work. Much of the data needed for that plan comes directly from the site survey. So before you get too far into design, check with your local building department to confirm what’s required. What’s Included in a Site Survey? Here are the items I typically request from a surveyor: Property lines Outline of the existing home and other structures (sheds, garages, etc.) Hard surfaces (driveways, sidewalks, walkways, patios) Street location and centerlines Manhole covers, catch basins, drainage features Fire hydrant locations Topography (at 2' intervals) Height and floor level of existing buildings Easements (utility, access, etc.) Utilities (power, water meter, well, sewer connection) Vegetation — especially large trees and canopy footprints Fence locations Exposed rock or significant site features Why Architects Need This Information Every detail in a site survey plays a role in how a project is designed and approved. Let’s break down a few key items: Property Lines & Setbacks Understanding property boundaries is crucial. Most jurisdictions have setback requirements —the minimum distance a structure must be from property lines. Common examples: Front yard: 25 ft Side yard: 5 ft Rear yard: 25 ft On a large parcel, these may not matter much. But on a small city lot, setbacks can dramatically reduce the allowable building footprint. Existing Structures If you’re adding onto a home, the survey shows exactly how the existing house sits relative to property lines. It also helps determine lot coverage limits —many jurisdictions restrict how much of a lot can be covered by buildings and hard surfaces (often around 30%). Hard Surfaces Driveways, patios, and even compacted gravel can count toward impervious surface limits. Knowing what’s already on site ensures your project stays within code. Street & Centerlines Street data sometimes factors into setback calculations. Surveys also show nearby infrastructure that may affect access and drainage. Topography On a flat site, slope may not be a concern. But if you’re building on a hillside, topography becomes critical. Elevation data informs foundation design, drainage, and compliance with steep-slope regulations. Heights & Floor Levels Recording roof heights and floor elevations helps confirm compliance with maximum building height restrictions. Easements Easements for utilities, access, or drainage can limit where you can build. A survey ensures they’re accounted for in the design. Utilities Most building departments want to see how power, water, and sewer connect to the house. The survey documents these locations. Vegetation Large trees aren’t just aesthetic—they may be protected by local ordinances . Some cities restrict how many trees can be removed, or require permits before altering canopy coverage. Fences & Other Elements Fences can be included to confirm their relationship to property lines. Other street elements like manhole covers, catch basins, and fire hydrants often need to be documented as well. Fire hydrant distance, for example, can determine whether a home must include fire sprinklers. The Bottom Line While a site survey may not always be legally required, it is almost always worthwhile . It provides your architect with the critical data needed to design within zoning restrictions, optimize site layout, and avoid costly surprises during permitting. Before you begin, check with your local permitting jurisdiction to confirm exactly what’s required. And when in doubt—get the survey. It’s one of the smartest investments you can make in a smooth building process.

As the architect behind the Crail Cottages, modFORM had the privilege of designing not just houses—but real homes that address one of Wenatchee’s most pressing challenges: the housing shortage. With limited inventory and rising prices, many local wage earners are being priced out of both the rental and ownership markets. This project is a direct response to that crisis, and we are proud to be part of the solution. Why Crail Cottages Matters Developed by Common Ground Community Housing Trust (CGCHT), the Crail Cottages consist of eight cottage-style homes, each around 970 square feet, with one- and two-bedroom layouts. These homes will be sold to households earning 65–80% of Wenatchee Valley’s area median income, making sustainable homeownership accessible to local families and workers. What makes the project especially compelling is CGCHT’s community land trust model—the homes are individually owned, but the land remains under community stewardship. This perpetual affordability model ensures that these homes remain affordable long-term. Foundation just poured Design Goals & Strategy When Common Ground approached modFORM, they had two core challenges: * Deliver high-quality, attractive homes that feel like “real neighborhoods,” not temporary solutions. * Keep construction cost-sensitive, so homes remain affordable for buyers. modFORM focused on a compact, efficient design strategy: * Cottage scale- At 970 SF, each home feels cozy yet functional—perfect for small households or couples. * Simple forms- Clean rooflines and modest footprints minimize material and labor costs. * Smart layouts- Efficient floor plans maximize usable space without unnecessary square footage. The goal was to prove that affordability need not sacrifice good design . Building Community From the start, the project has been a team effort driven by community values: A groundbreaking ceremony brought together neighbors, city leaders, and local supporters—underscoring the shared investment in housing solutions. Jessup Home Design—led by Alan Jessup—joined as the builder. As a local developer with deep ties to the valley, Alan’s craftsmanship and understanding of the mission made him the perfect partner. The project is backed by a mix of grants and community funding, totaling around \$900,000 to help subsidize the cost. By working together—architects, builders, funders, and residents—this effort is creating something more than just affordable housing: it’s building community. Rendering of Crail Cottage What It Means for Wenatchee For the people who buy these cottages, the project offers: * A pathway to homeownership at a time when buying anything within reach of town can feel out of reach. * A sense of stability and belonging, knowing that their home will remain accessible to future buyers. * A built environment that respects neighborhood scale—human-centered, thoughtfully designed, and easy to maintain. For the broader Wenatchee community, the project becomes a proof point—a replicable template showing that affordability and design excellence can coexist. Looking Ahead The project is currently in the construction phase, with foundations poured and progress evident on site. In the coming months, these cottage homes will be ready for purchase—turning years of planning and design into real homes and real lives. For modFORM, Crail Cottages is more than a project—it’s part of a vision: a future where people who work in Wenatchee can actually live here, affordably, and with pride in their home and neighborhood. --- Would You Like to Learn More? * Explore floor plans and renderings on Common Ground’s website to see the architecture and layout. * Watch for announcements on homebuyer opportunities in the CGCHT program. * Connect with modFORM to talk about how thoughtful design and affordability can go hand-in-hand—whether you're planning a small development or envisioning a broader housing strategy for Wenatchee.

In recent years, Accessory Dwelling Units—better known as ADUs —have gone from a niche idea to one of the most exciting movements in housing, especially in Washington State. Whether it's adding a compact home in your backyard or placing a retreat on a scenic piece of rural land, ADUs are proving to be flexible, sustainable, and future-forward solutions to how we live. Loosening Codes = More Possibilities Washington is evolving when it comes to zoning and building codes. Across the state—from Seattle to Chelan—( new legislation is making it easier than ever to build ADUs). Recent updates simplify the permitting process, reduce parking requirements, and allow for more flexible siting—even in rural areas or near waterfronts. That means if you’ve been dreaming about a guesthouse, a rental unit, or a riverside getaway, it’s more doable than ever. ADUs Fit the PNW Lifestyle ADUs make sense in Washington. With land availability, multi-generational living needs, and the growing desire for income-generating properties, these compact dwellings offer a smart way to make the most of your lot-without overbuilding or disrupting the environment. Plus, they’re perfect for: * Housing aging parents * Hosting guests * Creating short-term rentals or passive income * Building phased developments on rural land * Getting away from it all—without going far Spotlight: The Waterville ADU by modFORM With clean lines, an efficient footprint, and materials chosen for simplicity and durability, the Waterville ADU feels both grounded and elevated. It opens up to panoramic views of the Columbia River, inviting the outdoors in through framed vistas and a restrained, earthy palette. This isn’t just an ADU—it’s a concept, a retreat, and a quietly powerful architectural statement. The Future Is Small—and Smart As more Washington homeowners and landowners look for flexible, intentional and affordable ways to live and build , ADUs are emerging as a top choice. And with forward-thinking designers like modFORM paving the way, the future of small-scale living looks incredibly bright (and beautifully designed).

Blending Past and Present: modFORM's Approach to Home Remodels While modFORM primarily focuses on new, modern custom home designs, we've also had the opportunity to work on a number of unique additions and remodels. Some clients appreciate many aspects of their existing home but wish to update certain areas or expand their space. These projects offer an exciting opportunity—and creative challenge—to thoughtfully blend traditional and modern elements. Our Remodel Philosophy Whether working with a mid-century ranch or a nearly century-old historic home, our approach remains consistent: honor what makes the existing structure special while enhancing it for contemporary living. This might mean preserving original hardwood floors and trim while opening up spaces for better flow, or maintaining a home's traditional exterior character while completely reimagining the interior functionality. Featured Project: Historic Home Remodel | Wenatchee, WA Our Wenatchee historic remodel exemplifies this philosophy perfectly. This project focused on honoring the character of a nearly century-old home in the heart of Wenatchee while updating it for modern living. We preserved original features like the fireplace, trim, and hardwood floors, while improving the home's flow, light, and functionality. The kitchen and bathrooms were reimagined with a blend of classic and contemporary materials, and energy-efficient upgrades were seamlessly integrated. Working with Stephen Grudier at MLF Built, who did an incredible job on this gorgeous historic home, the result is a warm, livable space that celebrates the home's history while supporting today's lifestyle. Our Remodel Portfolio Here are some of the remodel projects we've completed, organized by approach: MODERN REMODELS  These projects retain elements of the existing home while blending modern additions to them. South Shore Addition Upper Chelan Addition Bellevue Remodel TRADITIONAL REMODELS  These projects retain a large amount of their traditional historic exterior while providing a modern interior update Wenatchee Historic Remodel Downtown Chelan Lake Chelan Addition Each project presents unique opportunities to bridge the gap between a home's original character and its future potential, creating spaces that feel both timeless and thoroughly contemporary.

Tucked between the towering Selkirk Mountains and the sparkling shores of Lake Pend Oreille, Sandpoint, Idaho is more than just a picturesque small town—it's a thriving, creative community that welcomes fresh ideas with open arms. While Sandpoint has long been loved for its postcard-perfect setting, outdoor adventures, and charming downtown, there's something exciting happening here: a growing appreciation for thoughtful design that reflects the town's forward-thinking spirit and deep connection to nature. A Landscape That Inspires From the moment you arrive, the natural beauty of Sandpoint is unmistakable. The calm expanse of Lake Pend Oreille—the largest lake in Idaho—beckons boaters, paddleboarders, and swimmers in the summer, while the snow-capped peaks of Schweitzer Mountain call to skiers and snowboarders in the winter. With endless hiking and biking trails, scenic drives, and wildlife viewing, it's no wonder people are drawn to Sandpoint to reconnect with the outdoors. But Sandpoint's beauty isn't just found in its landscapes. Walk through town and you'll find thoughtful design at every turn—modern builds that blend seamlessly with century-old structures, and interesting homes that honor the natural surroundings while embracing contemporary design. A Great Platform for Architectural Innovation Sandpoint is emerging as an ideal place for innovative design minds—architects, builders, and creatives who are reimagining what it means to live well in the mountain West. While there are already some fascinating homes and buildings throughout the area, there's tremendous potential for growth and creativity. The community shows a strong appetite for sustainable building practices, passive homes, off-grid solutions, and artistic touches that nod to both function and form. Whether it's a lakeside retreat with clean lines and glass walls to frame the view, or a timber-framed home that fuses rustic charm with smart tech, Sandpoint offers the perfect canvas for architectural experimentation. This is an ideal place to design and build a new modern home that takes full advantage of the stunning natural setting and supportive community atmosphere. The town itself supports this spirit of innovation. With a strong community of artists, entrepreneurs, and environmental stewards, Sandpoint provides a supportive environment for design professionals looking to do things differently. It's worth noting that Northern Idaho offers several excellent areas for building a home beyond Sandpoint. Communities like Coeur d'Alene, Hayden Lake, and other lakeside towns throughout the region provide similar opportunities for creating exceptional architecture in beautiful natural settings. Small Town, Big Culture For a town of just over 9,000 people, Sandpoint punches well above its weight in culture and community. From the acclaimed Festival at Sandpoint, which draws national musical acts each summer, to the Panida Theater, a historic venue that hosts everything from indie films to local performances, there's always something happening. Downtown, you'll find galleries showcasing regional artists, boutiques filled with locally made goods, and a food scene that's cozy, creative, and downright delicious. Grab a locally roasted coffee at Evans Brothers, enjoy lakefront dining at Trinity at City Beach, or unwind with a craft beer at MickDuff's. What To Do (When You're Not Thinking About Your Dream Home) Schweitzer Mountain Resort – Ski in the winter, hike or mountain bike in the summer, and soak in panoramic views year-round. City Beach – Paddle, swim, or picnic just steps from downtown. Sand Creek Trail – A beautiful, walkable path connecting parts of town and perfect for a morning jog or casual bike ride. Farms & Markets – Enjoy seasonal produce and artisan goods at the Sandpoint Farmers Market or visit local farms for U-pick fun. Art Walks & Local Events – Monthly art openings and rotating events keep the community buzzing with energy. A Place to Plant New Ideas Whether you're an architect with a vision, a family dreaming of a home that honors both sustainability and beauty, or simply someone seeking a slower pace in a stunning setting, Sandpoint welcomes you. It's a place where new ideas are not only accepted but celebrated—especially when they honor the land, the community, and the joy of living simply and well. Sandpoint isn't just a place to visit—it's a place to build, to dream, and to create something lasting.

A few weeks ago, our family set off with this small trailer, heading north to discover more wildflowers, dilapidated barns, and to explore more of our beautiful state. Bikes, stroller, trailer and family! There are places in this world that seem to exist in perfect harmony with nature—where human settlements enhance rather than detract from the surrounding wilderness. Winthrop, Washington is undoubtedly one of these rare gems. Nestled in the heart of the Methow Valley and surrounded by the dramatic peaks of the North Cascades, this small western-themed town offers an intoxicating blend of outdoor adventure, community warmth, and natural splendor that captivates visitors in every season. A Gateway to Outdoor Paradise Winthrop's greatest treasure is arguably its access to an astonishing variety of outdoor pursuits. The town serves as a basecamp for adventures that change with the seasons but never diminish in their capacity to inspire. In winter, the Methow Valley transforms into one of North America's premier Nordic skiing destinations. With over 120 miles of meticulously groomed trails—the largest cross-country ski network in North America—enthusiasts glide through snow-draped forests and across open meadows beneath crisp blue skies. The trails connect Winthrop to neighboring communities, allowing skiers to journey between villages and even stop for lunch along the way. When spring arrives and the snow begins its retreat, the valley erupts in a spectacular wildflower display. Hiking trails that wind through the surrounding mountains reveal carpets of lupine, paintbrush, and balsamroot that transform the landscape into a painter's palette of colors. Popular trails like the Blue Lake Trail and the paths around Sun Mountain Lodge offer views that seem almost too beautiful to be real. Summer invites visitors to explore the pristine waters that flow through the region. The Methow River provides thrilling rapids for whitewater enthusiasts and peaceful stretches for fly fishing, where catching the elusive steelhead is considered a badge of honor among anglers. Patterson Lake and Pearrygin Lake State Park offer swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking against a backdrop of mountains that seem to rise directly from the water's edge. Mountain bikers find their heaven on hundreds of miles of singletrack trails that range from gentle valley paths to challenging alpine routes. The Sun Mountain trail system alone offers enough variety to keep riders exploring for days. As autumn paints the aspen and cottonwood trees in brilliant gold, the hiking and biking continue against a changing canvas. The cooling temperatures bring perfect conditions for rock climbing at spots like Fun Rock and Goat Wall, where vertical adventures await those ready to challenge themselves. Slice of Paradise Community: The Heart of Winthrop What truly sets Winthrop apart, however, is not just its natural abundance but the character of its community. Despite its small population of under 500 year-round residents, the town possesses a cultural richness that belies its size. The western-themed downtown wasn't created as a tourist gimmick but emerged from a thoughtful 1970s revitalization project inspired by the area's frontier history. Walking down the wooden boardwalks past facades that would look at home in a Western film, visitors sense authenticity rather than artifice. This commitment to heritage is balanced by a forward-thinking approach to community building. The town hosts events throughout the year that bring together locals and visitors alike. The Winthrop Rhythm & Blues Festival draws music lovers from across the region, while the Methow Valley Chamber Music Festival showcases world-class performances in intimate settings. The '49er Days celebration honors the area's gold rush history with a parade and old-fashioned contests that maintain connections to the past. What strikes many visitors is how Winthrop has avoided the pitfall of becoming either an exclusive playground for the wealthy or a tacky tourist trap. Instead, it has cultivated a community where artists, outdoors enthusiasts, ranchers, and entrepreneurs coexist and collaborate. Local businesses like the Mazama Store and the Rocking Horse Bakery become gathering places where conversations flow easily between strangers. Natural Beauty That Transforms the Soul Perhaps Winthrop's most profound gift is its beauty—a beauty so encompassing it seems to seep into one's consciousness and alter how one perceives the world. The quality of light in the Methow Valley has drawn photographers and artists for generations. Mornings often begin with mist rising from the valley floor as the first rays of sunlight strike the mountain peaks. Evenings end with alpenglow painting the Liberty Bell Mountain range in otherworldly hues of pink and gold. The North Cascades surrounding the town are often called "America's Alps," but this comparison hardly does justice to their unique character. Unlike their European counterparts, these mountains remain largely undeveloped, preserving an ecological integrity that becomes increasingly rare in our modern world. The nearby North Cascades National Park and Pasayten Wilderness contain some of the most remote terrain in the lower 48 states, offering experiences of solitude that have become almost impossible to find. The night skies above Winthrop, minimally affected by light pollution, reveal the Milky Way in all its glory. Star-gazing here becomes less a hobby and more a direct connection to the cosmos that has inspired human wonder since time immemorial. Living in Balance What makes Winthrop truly special is how it demonstrates that humans can live in balance with a spectacular natural environment. The community has embraced sustainable practices, from the solar arrays that power local businesses to the conservation easements that protect the valley's open spaces from development. The Methow Conservancy works tirelessly with local landowners to preserve the valley's character while acknowledging the need for economic vitality. This careful balance has allowed Winthrop to welcome visitors without surrendering its soul to tourism's more destructive tendencies. Go Visit! Winthrop, Washington offers more than just a getaway—it presents a vision of how we might live more harmoniously with our natural surroundings while fostering genuine community connections. Whether you come for a weekend adventure or are fortunate enough to make it your home, this small town nestled among mountains and rivers has a way of remaining in your heart long after you've left its valley. In a world increasingly defined by digital connections and urban environments, Winthrop stands as a reminder of something essential—that our deepest fulfillment often comes when we reconnect with nature, engage authentically with community, and take time to witness beauty in its purest forms. This little western town in Washington's North Cascades may just be one of the best places in America to do exactly that.

A harmonious blend of modern design and natural beauty along the Columbia River At modFORM LLC, we're thrilled to announce our newest project in development: the Ribbon Cliff Residence. This ambitious architectural endeavor represents our continued commitment to creating spaces that honor both human needs and natural landscapes. A River's Edge Retreat Nestled along the tranquil banks of the Columbia River, the Ribbon Cliff Residence draws inspiration from its breathtaking surroundings. The property offers uninterrupted panoramic views of the majestic Ribbon Cliffs near Chelan, creating a living experience that changes with the light and seasons. What makes this project particularly special is our tri-structure approach. Rather than designing a single monolithic building, we've conceptualized three distinct yet complementary structures that work in harmony with the landscape and each other. The Tri-Structure Design The middle structure serves as the primary living space, housing the heart of the home with common areas designed for daily family life. This central hub connects the family's routines with thoughtful spaces for cooking, dining, and gathering. The south structure combines functionality with wellness, housing both the garage and a dedicated workout room. This thoughtful pairing creates a natural transition zone between arriving home and entering the living spaces, while promoting health and wellbeing as part of everyday life. The north structure is entirely dedicated to entertainment and relaxation, featuring a game room and lounge area where residents and guests can unwind and socialize. This separate entertainment wing allows for lively gatherings without disturbing the tranquility of the main living spaces. Balancing Community and Privacy The modern family requires both togetherness and solitude. Our vision for the Ribbon Cliff Residence acknowledges this delicate balance by creating dedicated spaces for communal gathering alongside private sanctuaries for reflection and rest. The primary structure houses shared living areas designed to bring people together—spacious kitchen and dining areas flow seamlessly into comfortable living spaces where family and friends can connect. Meanwhile, the additional structures provide private retreats where residents can enjoy moments of solitude and quiet contemplation. Dissolving Boundaries Between Inside and Out Perhaps the most striking feature of our design is the extensive use of glass throughout the residence. Floor-to-ceiling windows create living picture frames that capture the ever-changing landscape. This transparency serves a dual purpose: flooding the interior with natural light while visually extending living spaces into the surrounding environment. The boundary between indoors and outdoors becomes beautifully blurred, allowing residents to feel connected to nature regardless of where they are in the home. Embracing the Natural Setting The Ribbon Cliff Residence doesn't simply observe nature—it invites engagement with it. Thoughtfully designed outdoor living spaces include covered patios, open-air lounges, and meditation nooks that encourage residents to step outside and experience the serenity of the river environment directly. Our architectural team has meticulously considered the orientation of each structure to maximize views of both the river and the iconic Ribbon Cliffs. This careful positioning reaches its most dramatic effect at sunset, when the cliffs are illuminated with warm golden light reflected off the river's surface—a daily natural spectacle that residents can enjoy from nearly every room. Looking Forward As we move forward with this project, we're excited to share more details about the sustainable materials, energy-efficient systems, and innovative construction techniques that will bring the Ribbon Cliff Residence to life. The Ribbon Cliff Residence represents modFORM LLC's continued evolution as a design studio dedicated to creating spaces that respect and celebrate their natural contexts while providing exceptional living experiences for their inhabitants. Stay tuned for updates as this exciting project develops from concept to reality. modFORM LLC specializes in contextual modern architecture that responds to both human needs and natural environments. For more information about our approach and projects, please visit our portfolio.

What does beer and architecture have in common? Well, nothiing...but I wanted to share things to celebrate: Spring has arrived in all its glory here in North Central Washington, bringing with it a sense of renewal that perfectly complements our exciting news – we've moved into brand new office space! As the landscape transforms with vibrant wildflowers and the warming sunshine beckons us outdoors, we can't help but feel a surge of inspiration and possibility in our fresh surroundings. New Office, New Energy Our team is thrilled about our new workspace that captures the spirit of NCW – open, inviting, and with views that remind us daily why we chose to build our business in this remarkable region. Just as the spring season represents growth and transformation, our new office marks an exciting chapter in our journey, providing us more room to collaborate, create, and better serve our community. Spring Awakening in Central Washington There's something magical about spring in North Central Washington. The snow begins to melt from the peaks of the Cascades, feeding the rushing waters of the Wenatchee and Columbia Rivers. Trails that were snow-covered just weeks ago now reveal themselves, offering spectacular hiking opportunities through extraordinary wildflower displays that carpet the hillsides. The energy is palpable as locals and visitors alike emerge from winter hibernation, eager to reconnect with nature and each other. Which brings us to one of our favorite aspects of this beautiful region – the thriving brewery culture that perfectly complements our outdoor lifestyle. Brews & Community: The Perfect Pairing Nothing caps off a day of adventure quite like gathering with friends at one of NCW's exceptional breweries. These local establishments have become more than just places to enjoy craft beer – they're community hubs where connections are forged, stories are shared, and the authentic spirit of Central Washington shines through. For vacationers and weekend visitors, our local breweries offer a perfect window into what makes this region special. They showcase local ingredients, reflect our region's pioneering spirit, and provide welcoming spaces where everyone can feel at home. BREWERIES IN NCW North Central Washington is home to some of the most spectacular natural wonders in the state. From the breathtaking views of the Enchantments to the vibrant waterways of the Wenatchee and Columbia Rivers, this region offers an incredible backdrop for outdoor adventure. Whether you're skiing and snowboarding in the winter, hiking through extraordinary wildflower displays in the spring, or mountain biking and paddleboarding in the summer, there's no shortage of ways to immerse yourself in nature. After a day of adventure, you'll find plenty of great spots to unwind. Our region boasts a variety of outstanding breweries and cider houses where you can relax, connect with the community, and enjoy a well-earned drink. For those considering a move to North Central Washington, these options are just one more reason why building a home here is so enticing. The combination of outdoor recreation, vibrant small towns, and a thriving local food and drink scene makes NCW an exceptional place to live, work, and enjoy life to the fullest. Here are a few of our favorite breweries (and one cider house) to check out: Breweries and Cider Houses in NCW: Name City Website Hellbent Brewing Wenatchee, WA Hellbent Brewing Milepost 111 Brewing Cashmere, WA Milepost 111 Brewing Icicle Brewing Leavenworth, WA Icicle Brewing Blewett Brewing Leavenworth, WA Blewett Brewing Wenatchee Valley Brewery Wenatchee, WA Wenatchee Valley Brewery Old Schoolhouse Brewery Winthrop, WA Old Schoolhouse Brewery Yonder Cider (Honorable Mention) Cashmere, WA Yonder Cider While Yonder Cider is not a brewery, it's a fantastic place to enjoy fresh, locally crafted cider in a welcoming atmosphere. Our Spring Brewery Tour Recommendations This spring, we suggest making a weekend of brewery hopping through NCW. Start in Wenatchee at Hellbent Brewing, where you can enjoy their flagship IPAs on a sun-drenched patio. Then head to charming Cashmere to experience Milepost 111's small-batch creations and Yonder Cider's orchard-inspired offerings. No brewery tour would be complete without a stop in Leavenworth, where Icicle Brewing and Blewett Brewing offer distinctive atmospheres and exceptional craft beers that pair perfectly with the town's Bavarian charm. For the more adventurous, continue your journey to Winthrop, where Old Schoolhouse Brewery serves up award-winning beers in a historic setting that captures the essence of the American West. Bringing People Together, One Pint at a Time What we love most about our local brewery scene is how it brings people together. On any given spring weekend, you'll find a diverse mix of outdoor enthusiasts, families, locals, and visitors all sharing tables, stories, and laughter. These gathering spaces have become essential to the fabric of our communities, especially as we emerge from winter and celebrate the arrival of spring. They remind us that great beer, like great places, has the power to create connections and foster a sense of belonging. As we settle into our new office and embrace the vibrant energy of spring in North Central Washington, we invite you to experience the natural beauty, welcoming communities, and exceptional breweries that make this region we call home so special. Cheers to new beginnings, beautiful spring weekends, and the craft brewery culture that helps make North Central Washington an extraordinary place to visit, live, and build your dreams!

We're excited to share progress on one of our very unique residential projects: the Burch Mountain Residence. Nestled on the south slopes of Burch Mountain, this home exemplifies our commitment to creating architecture that harmonizes with its natural surroundings while maintaining a distinctly modern aesthetic. Design Philosophy The Burch Mountain Residence was conceived as a thoughtful response to its environment. Working closely with our clients, we designed a home that embraces the spectacular mountain views while providing intimate, comfortable living spaces. A series of shed roofs mirror the slope of the terrain, helping the structure settle naturally into the hillside, while large expanses of glass frame ever-changing views of the Wenatchee Valley below. Natural materials, including stained cedar siding and exposed concrete, further root the home in its surroundings, creating a quiet dialogue between architecture and landscape.   Construction Progress The construction process has been advancing steadily, with framing complete and interior finishes now well underway. The home's distinctive roof planes and generous outdoor living spaces are taking shape, revealing the architectural vision we've been developing for months. Construction will be complete in a couple of months, and we're looking forward to sharing final photographs once the project is finished and the landscape begins to settle in around the architecture. A Growing Presence in Wenatchee With several projects in design, under construction, and completed throughout Wenatchee, we're seeing growing interest in unique and modern homes across the Wenatchee Valley. Areas like the Burch Mountain neighborhood highlight both the region’s natural beauty and the opportunity for thoughtful architecture to elevate these remarkable sites.   Each project presents an opportunity to respond uniquely to different client needs and specific site conditions, even within the same mountain landscape. We're excited about the possibility of creating a collection of homes that each offer their own architectural response to this spectacular setting. Stay tuned for final photographs of the Burch Mountain Residence in the coming months. We can't wait to share the completed project with you!

Last spring, we hiked up Nahaum Canyon, taking in the beauty of the Cashmere Canyons Preserve—a place that continues to inspire us. With vibrant wildflowers, sweeping vistas, and the peacefulness of open spaces, this hike reminded us why Central Washington is so special. The trail started with a steep ascent, offering a rewarding challenge and breathtaking views of the rolling hills and valleys. Along the way, we paused to admire the rugged yet elegant landscape, much like the homes we design. Bright yellow balsamroot and purple lupine lined the trail, a fleeting but stunning reminder of the changing seasons. Now, as we prepare to move our office to Cashmere, this hike feels even more meaningful. Soon, we’ll be calling this incredible landscape home, drawing daily inspiration from the surroundings and helping others create homes that truly belong in this breathtaking region.