30

do it the way he would do for himself,” Dennis said.

Corrugated siding is acid-washed to create an aged effect. Deck railings are made of simple iron pipe treated to give it a “rusted” effect consistent with the siding and lodge style.

Miller mixes and matches different but compatible woods to create harmonious interior effects — tamarack larch trim, fir doors, pine windows, and knotty pine ceilings in the master bed-room and sunroom. The floors on the main level are made from recycled wood. Carpeting or tile are used where appropriate, such as in the bedrooms, baths and main hallway, and on the stairs.

Far left, sculpted rafter tails add fine detail to the timber frame construction. Above, acid-washed corrugated siding complements the siding and deck railings. Near left, exterior fixtures were chosen to match other finishes. Photos by Don nelson

The aptly named sun room features a vaulted ceiling, window seat and south-facing deck. Photos by Don nelson

37Methow Home 2016

and will quickly change native ecosystems.

The valley’s climate is another important consideration when planning a road. Summer’s infamous “moon dust” soils will eventually be covered with snow in the winter, then quickly turn to foot-deep mud in the early spring. As a result, roads require good drainage and regular maintenance.

Building a home that can be served by existing roads avoids unnecessary damage. If you build a driveway off of a county road, you’ll need to obtain a Road Approach Permit from the County Engineer at the Public Works Department. A driveway built off a state road requires a

permit from the Washington State Department of Transportation.

Some characteristics of a well-planned road:

• Does not cross wetlands or riparian areas.

• Minimizes erosion and sedimentation.

• Uses culverts and drainage ditches to direct runoff.

• Follows the contours of the natural landscape.

• Blends in with the surrounding area.

• Banks are reseeded early and often to discourage the spread of noxious weeds; weeds are continuously controlled.

• Grade does not exceed 8 percent (for winter and emergency access).

Certainly, there is a lot to think about as you plan your home, but hopefully you can consider it all part of the Methow adventure. The more time you spend with your land, the more you will come to appreciate it and the wonders it holds.

This article and illustrations are excerpted from the Methow Conservancy’s Good Neighbor Handbook — a guide for new landowners in the valley. The free handbook is available at the Methow Conservancy. For more information, visit the Methow Conservancy office at 315 Riverside Ave. in Winthrop, call 996-2870 or visit www.methowconservancy.org. H

A detailed site map is vital to your planning. GraPhic courtesy of Methow conservancy