Defined as an attractive dwelling or retreat, the term bower was used as the inspiration for this primary bedroom renovation in Washington, D.C. Colleen Healey Architecture was presented with an original sleeping porch—a common feature found throughout much of the northwest side of the city—that had been previously remodeled into a master suite. But, the found condition consisted of a narrow bedroom and a dark unused transition space.

For the current remodel, the design team’s goals were to create a suite that better connected to the outdoors, used an organic material palette, and provided privacy while still taking advantage of the southern exposure and natural daylighting.

The bedroom was reoriented and connected both materially and visually to the attached bath. A natural palette was one of the highest priorities. The whole suite is clad in a warm white oak wrapper, punctured by windows and a wool-wrapped headboard wall. Additional natural materials include paper yarn carpet, clay tiles, concrete countertops, and locally sourced recyclable wallpaper.

Visually, the strategic placement of mirrors elongates the space, and the axial relationships and the textured wood walls help frame views to the trees and houses below.