The site of Reciprocal Respite contains multiple dualities, covered forest and open meadow, fluid stream and stable rock, intimate edges of the immediate site and expansive enclosure between two ridges. The dwelling occupies the most private corner of the site, nestled into the contours of the forested hillside overlooking the stream and meadow. On arrival, their connection is framed through the outside/inside stair. Passing into this frame, the memory of the city is abandoned and the perception of the immediate landscape is intensified. Joining the path to the meadow, landform forays are expressly encouraged.
Simultaneously, dwelling retreat extends the dialogue of reciprocal duality. Upper and lower floors open in opposite directions, reinforcing intimate and expansive (private and public) engagement. The upper floor bedrooms open eastward to the intimate upper ground of a forest clearing. In contrast, the lower floor entertaining rooms open westward to the expansive sunset on the distant ridgeline. Inducing the inhabitant to bask in the sunset view, the glass walls and screens of the lower floor enclosure slide fully open, culminating the connection between inhabitant and landform.
