SW HILLS
2022

This project marks a date in history I'll likely remember forever. This is the last project I imagine I will build solely by myself (with a few days of help). I endeavored on the installation of this commission after we had decided to relocate to Los Angeles. Our daughter was living with my parents and my wife had already left Oregon.  I was in a position where I could devote 100% of my day to this site, and quite honestly didn't know anyone I trusted enough to do right by such a simple project. 

The intent of the project was to create usable space in a tiny, tiny backyard with an annoyingly slight, but steep slope. Just steep enough for it to be unusable. Our initial design was more intensive version of what you see, but due to budget we simplified it into how it exists below. Two terraces, one for lounging, one for dining. Both connected to a small deck off the kitchen and living of the home and intertwined by lush native and edible planting. Who knew blueberries make a fantastic short hedge. 

Our clients love the charm of natural stone and cobble paving, so I sourced 7 tons of rectilinear shaped basalt to use for the walls and pathway. Every piece of stone was about 60-110 lbs, and needed to be hand selected and cut into shape before setting into place. It was tedious, and back breaking. After 2 and a half months, I packed up for Los Angeles with a bummed shoulder, bursitis in my elbow and the understanding that my place as a laborer is better left in Oregon. My hands still get dirty when testing new ideas or showing contractors my ideas aren't crazy, but I let my mind be the commodity. 

Location: Portland, OR
Budget: $50,000    Construction Timeline: 10 weeks
Designer: Aaron Hinish
Contractor: Aaron Hinish