When Lou Maxon leaves his home in Carnation, he doesn't just drive to work; he hops onto his office on rails and rolls into the forest. Maxon Studio, a 300-square-foot, two-story, steel-and-glass masterpiece, serves as his workspace.
Maxon, a brand and design creative director, has collaborated with global giants like Microsoft, Starbucks, and Brooks Running. In 2007, he and his wife Kim purchased 21.5 acres in rural Carnation with a vision to create a distinctive home for their family.
"Just more open and more modern, a little bit lower maintenance," he stated, emphasizing the need for a separate workspace away from home.
(Courtesy: Aaron Leitz/Olson Kundig)
Maxon took on the role of project manager, collaborating with the award-winning Seattle architectural firm Olson Kundig, renowned for blending architecture with nature. During discussions, Maxon expressed his desire for an office that allowed him to leave the house yet remain on the property. This led to a playful idea from architect Tom Kundig about putting the office on tracks.
(Courtesy: Aaron Leitz/Olson Kundig)
Phil Turner, Olson Kundig’s “gizmologist,” was tasked with the challenge of making this vision a reality. The studio, powered by an electric engine sourced from eBay, features a control panel from Burlington Northern.
"It's kind of an engineering hackathon, if you will, to figure out how to make it work," said Maxon.
With a top speed of 5 mph, the studio travels along 110 feet of track, which includes a stabilizing bar for safety. The design also reflects the Tolt River Valley's rich rail industry history, incorporating elements that honor this legacy.
(Courtesy: Aaron Leitz/Olson Kundig)
Maxon likens his studio to a caboose, where the conductor managed operations. The workspace downstairs includes shelves and a desk, while the upper level serves as a relaxation area. The vibrant yellow door echoes the colors of Great Northern trains, and a vintage railroad signal stands nearby to indicate when Maxon is busy.
"When I'm working and don't want to be disturbed, I can turn on the signal so people know not to come in," he explained.
The studio has been featured in prominent publications like Architectural Digest, Dezeen, and The New York Times. It not only serves as a workspace but also acts as a mini museum showcasing the history of Northwest Railways.
(Courtesy: Aaron Leitz/Olson Kundig)
Maxon Studio truly redefines the concept of commuting through your workload.
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