VENETA HOUSE
Veneta House
Architect: Richard Shugar AIA, LEED AP
Project Manager: Hans Minder
General Contractor: Stonewood Construction
Landscape Architecture: Lovinger Robertson
Cabinetry: Distinctive Wood Kitchen and Bath
Masonry: Creative Design Masonry
Tile and Counters: Stone Works International, Inc.
Completed 2019
Veneta, Oregon
1,300 sf, New Construction
The Veneta House is a deeply personal and expressive home, one born not just from design ambition, but from resilience and renewal. When longtime residents Chris and Megan lost their original house to a devastating electrical fire in 2017, they chose to see the loss as an opportunity to build something that felt entirely their own: a home that reflected their personalities, their priorities, and their love of the land.
The 1,300-square-foot house feels generous with space despite its modest footprint, thanks to an open floor plan, soaring ceilings that peak at 28 feet, and a striking double-height living/dining room wrapped in tall windows that frame views of the forest.
Every element of the home was thoughtfully chosen and, in many cases, handcrafted. The couple were involved throughout the design and build process, even fabricating custom features themselves. Chris, a teacher and skilled metalsmith, welded the home’s sculptural steel balustrade and built the staircase using reclaimed school desks.
A U-shaped kitchen, designed for a passionate home cook, anchors the main living space, and a massive stone fireplace brings warmth both literally and visually. Upstairs, an open loft serves as the master suite, with views that stretch out over the surrounding acreage.
Despite its contemporary look, the Veneta House is also highly livable and tuned to the McGowans’ daily rhythms. From a built-in dog door to exceptional acoustics for their musical pursuits (bassoon and violin), the home was tailored to support their lifestyle. A simple, efficient ductless HVAC system keeps the house comfortable year-round, and a large concrete deck extends the living area outdoors, perfect for morning yoga or evening gatherings with friends.
More than a residence, the Veneta House is a testament to starting over with intention, a home that embodies beauty, resilience, and the joy of making something meaningful from the ground up.
This home is featured in the 2025 summer issue of Eugene Magazine!
Read the full article here