Shring on the edge of Seattle's Lush St. Mark's Greenbelt and a short walk from the lively district of Capitol Hill, an apartment from 1979, which was designed by the renowned architect Gordon Walker Architecture & Design Dandruff. Walker, co -founder of Olson Walker (now Olson Kundig), left an indelible legacy in the northwest of Pacific, and this project aimed to honor its original vision and at the same time adapt the space for contemporary life.
The owner of the apartment was originally greened by the calm view of the property over the densely forested and its proximity to the volunteer park, an ideal backdrop for daily walks with his two Akitas, Chela and Bosco. While the architectural frame of the 1,675 square meter room remained strong, the interiors needed to better meet modern needs. The renovation tried to preserve the original design principles of Walker – to prioritize a connection to nature and context -related harmony and at the same time include influences from the owner's global trips, especially Australia, Korea and Japan.
Shed's approach mixed respect for Walker's architectural sensitivity with the owner's wish for a room that compensates for openness and privacy. Time goals included the creation of an inviting and functional cuisine for a professionally trained cook, the improvement of the natural light and the creation of luxurious but quiet bedroom suites.
As a professionally trained chef, the owner presented a kitchen that was both highly functional and visually noticeable. Shed transformed the room into a culinary harbor with Rift-Sawn White Oak Cabinetry, which was made by Henrybuilt. The new layout enables several cooks to work comfortably and at the same time maintain clean, minimalist aesthetics, promotes the social interaction and lightness of the movement.
The natural light floods the living room through extensive windows, which create the view of the green blind frame and a seamless internal and external connection. A sophisticated range of materials improves the room with a modernized fireplace, which is covered with blackened steel and set on a quartzite stove. Quartz residues were implemented to create a custom -made coffee table and a side table, which gives the design continuity and sustainability. The open-plan layout effortlessly connects the living room with the dining area, the kitchen and the outdoor terrace, on which a custom-made concrete fire pit is anchored and an inviting space for meetings and quiet reflections.
The modest exterior of the condominium includes its quiet presence in the middle of Capitol Hills, but shows a striking transformation. The double height input now has a sage green house door, a sculptural chandelier and a newly designed staircase that is enclosed with a funny powder steel guide. The formerly open staircase was surrounded and not only provided additional cabinet bearings, but also a cozy corner for the dogs.
The upper level has been re -configured to accommodate two private bedrooms suites -a primary school and one for guests -each of which should cause a feeling of calm and sophistication. Grasclloth accentions, white oak paneling and custom case work create warm and inviting rooms. The bathrooms, compact and yet luxurious, have milestone cleaning walls, Japanese-inspired tiles and a steam bath that offers a spa-like experience. Carefully integrated memory improves functionality without affecting aesthetics. A private terrace next to the suites offers a peaceful retreat outdoors and a subtle visual connection to the street below.
In the condominium, Shed introduced new glazing, electrical colors and improved insulation to cope with the challenges of temperature control, and previously converted stuffy interiors into a comfortable, air -conditioned sanctuary. The renovation successfully fits the awe of Walker's original design with the requirements of modern life, which leads to a timeless but contemporary home that reflects both the legacy of the Pacific northwest and the unique experiences of its owner.
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Further information on Shed Architecture & Design can be found at Shedbuilt.com.
Photography by Rafael Soldi.