In the Magnolia neighbourhood of Seattle, this compact urban house provides a couple with open plan living, strong connections to the outdoors, and plenty of natural light. Designed by mwworks Architects, the material palette is simple and purposeful, infusing modern simplicity with warmth, craft, and detail.
At street level, board-formed concrete volumes vary in height to form a series of exterior and interior rooms which intertwine with the landscape. Above the concrete base, an exterior of sliced Richlite panels provides an economical skin that catches the sun and presents a unique texture to the street.
Spatially, a boardwalk slides over and through a series of spaces and experiences while leading to the front door. Alongside the boardwalk, a sunken landscape court connects the garden and home.
Inside, the primary living space opens out through wood-framed glass doors to an exterior covered balcony space that floats above a courtyard level of living spaces below. An open riser stair made of steel and charred fir meanwhile is a central organizing feature.
Large windows are used throughout the home to maximize daylight and provide passive ventilation as well as strong connections to the landscape.
Heating is achieved via a high-efficiency natural gas boiler with hydronic radiant heat throughout the well-insulated home. High-efficiency light fixtures, plumbing fixtures, and appliances further help to conserve energy and resources.
