- Like the indigenous design traditions of the Northwest, architectural design at Suncadia is to respond to the climactic, cultural and geographic influences of the area. The basic design elements are a combination of the following:
- Simple building columns that have a main mass with subordinated accessory wings and/or additions, which taper off at the ends to “anchor” buildings to the site.
- Buildings that either step with and conform to the natural topography or lightly span sloped areas.
- Decks, patios, and terraces that extend off of the house and /or act as a connection.
- Broad sheltering roofs with well-proportioned structural elements reflective of the local climate.
- Shade created by porches, balconies and deep overhangs.
- A reliance on locally derived natural building materials.
- Vertically-oriented rectangular windows, with heavy wood trim at frames.
- Wood and/or steel braces and trusses with simple lines and little ornamentation.