Anti-Shed House, Winthrop, Washington cabin

Anti-Shed House in Winthrop, Washington

Architect: Syndicate Smith

Location: Methow Valley, Winthrop, Washington, United States

Photos by Jay Thomas Neely

October 16, 2024

Syndicate Smith’s latest project—aptly named Anti-Shed — makes a striking statement in Washington’s Methow Valley, deliberately rejecting the glass-heavy, shed-roofed homes that have come to define the region. Inspired by the owners’ travels through Scandinavia, the design embraces the clarity and simplicity of the gable form.

From the exterior, the home presents a dramatic profile: two matte-black volumes joined by a central entry sequence. The dark cladding is as functional as it is bold—absorbing winter heat while providing a sharp contrast against the valley’s snowy backdrop.

In summer, the layout centers on a sheltered courtyard, offering a rare outdoor refuge from the north-south winds sweeping the valley. This space doubles as an outdoor living room, extending daily life beyond the walls without sacrificing comfort.

Inside, Syndicate Smith resisted the pull of floor-to-ceiling glass. Instead, the architects composed intentional view moments: a dining table oriented toward the mountains, a reading nook bathed in light, and quiet corners framing single peaks. These carefully curated apertures preserve intimacy and control exposure while maintaining a strong connection to the surrounding landscape.

The home is organized into two distinct wings. One houses the social core—kitchen, dining, and living spaces that open toward expansive valley views. The other contains the private quarters: the primary suite and a separate guest suite, designed as a retreat for family and friends. Together, the two volumes balance openness with seclusion, creating a home that feels both expansive and deeply personal.

Anti-Shed House in Winthrop, Washington State – Property Information

Architect: Syndicate Smith – https://www.syndicatesmith.com/

Location: Winthrop, WA, USA

Area:
Lot Size: 13.34
House Footprint: 2,059 sf
Total Interior: 2,059 sf

Contractor: Blackcap Builders Collective
Structural Engineer: BTL Engineering

About Syndicate Smith
Founded in 2010, Syndicate Smith is a full-service architecture and interior design studio based in Leavenworth, Washington. Known for its distinctive, high-quality homes and hospitality spaces, the firm draws inspiration from the state’s diverse geography—from arid plains and wooded foothills to alpine villages and coastal inlets. With a nimble, collaborative approach, Syndicate Smith embraces the unique character of each project’s setting to create spaces deeply rooted in place. Whether crafting a modern retreat or a playful public destination, the studio brings thoughtfulness, adaptability, and a touch of the unexpected to every project.