Walking through the front door, depending on the weather, you take in the sun's western rays and the calm of Lake Washington or the drip of rain hitting choppy gray waters. Either way there is something - ironically - grounding about the sight, as you find yourself stopped in the moment pondering the quiet beauty of the lake and Seattle skyline beyond.
This remodel, our 2nd project for this family of four, sought to enhance the home's connection to the outdoors and view and provide places for the family to gather and entertain. For budget reasons, we limited the gut and remodel of the original 4100 SF, L-shaped split-level to the home's west wing, although we did redesign the exterior, including a new roof line, entry and deck/patio. The original home, like many of its age, had low roof eaves, ceilings, and windows along with small rooms. Raising the ceiling height, opening up the living spaces, and strengthening the home's connection to the backyard and view were priorities, as was locating the kitchen in the center of the main living space. That central location gave the family the opportunity to cook, eat, meet up and hang out all together in one area. A new patio, exterior stair and upper deck connect the home to the backyard from all levels.
