West Seattle Residence

Publication:

"...At that point we said to each other, we must let Bernie Baker know how well this house works for us. And, of course, we got all the comments ... the usual ... beautiful, warm welcoming, you know, all the stuff we asked for originally. Well here we are almost 3 years later and it seems to have worked out just fine!" - Nancy

This two building solution was developed to take advantage of the unusual dual street access of the lot and helps keep the structures in scale with the neighborhood.  The private, protected, warm southern exposed courtyard, further enhanced by the covered west view deck, provides prized outdoor living.

The interior is a free flowing functional plan, at and between, each level.  The glazed areas maximize the views to the west, south, and southeast of Puget Sound and the mountains.  The open plan interior is an artful layered horizontal and vertical composition, counterbalanced by the living area fireplace and opposing kitchen.  The introduction of natural light from multiple sources is key to enhancing and opening the interior, allowing both volume and intimacy to be celebrated.  The modern detailing is grounded using organic materials of wood, rusted steel, copper, and stone with glass and stainless steel highlights, contributing to the sense of habitation.

Photos: Benjamin Benschneider, BBA