Seattle Modern Home Tour 2014
Urban Living had the privilege once again this year to partake in the annual Seattle Modern Home Tour. The self guided tour took us through some of the best North Western modern designs by local architects; some are for sale and some just for design showcase. The tour took us from West Seattle to Magnolia to Leschi to Madison Valley, to Northgate and Issaquah (not necessarily in that order). It is nearly impossible to navigate through all 6 within the 6 hour time span when you factor in the traffic. We managed to see 5 out of the 6 of houses open to visitors (sorry Issaquah) and here they are;
Robert Bonner: 6321 41st Ave. SW
What stands out about this house is the thoughtful planning from the strategic window positioning for maximizing sunlight, to decorative yet functional storage spaces that keeps the family in perfect minimalist condition at all times. It’s a house that has received a lot of labor and love and it shows. The results of months of renovation with architect Robert Bonner is one of mid century modern with a touch of warm whimsy. Whilst the front view of the house remained the same, the architectural change observed from the backyard is daringly geometric and modern and a highlight to the restructure.
E. Cobb Architects: 2311 West Newton St. #301
Tucked away in this near forgotten corner of Magnolia, is the modern industrial complex in grey monotone. The pent house sits atop the complex and overlooks the Interbay industrial view. Standing over the kitchen counter, you will see in clear view the Space Needle and Mt Rainier on a clear day. The space is cleverly designed with interconnecting spaces from one room to another. Cabinets are expertly hidden to maximize storage and space. The bathroom takes a departure from the industrial design and is finished in pristine white marble with a classic standalone bathtub. The outdoor space wraps around the main mining space and the main bedroom. In fact, every bedroom leads onto an outdoor patio. It has an outdoor jacuzzi, fireplace inside and out, impressive set of BBQ appliance – modern living come true.
E. Cobb Architects: 4100 East Highland Dr.
The house at 4100 East Highland Drive is built modern prairie style with interior of gallery-like space with high vaulted ceiling. E Cobb Architects built the house with rooms at varying levels to maximize space, view and light. The house has great open space on both levels great for families with younger children. It is a fun, modern and upbeat residence. This one is on the market for $2,795,000! It has 4 bedrooms and 3,5 bathrooms with an area of 3,860 square feet space. The location is close to the water and the massive rooftop offers a panoramic view.
James Chiarelli: 843 NE 100th St.
From the exterior, it looks like a modern day luxury cabin. This residence once belonged to the reputable NW architect James Chiarelli. The current owner remodeled the place while maintaining the integrity of the original design. The living room faces a forest like garden through floor to ceiling windows that embraces the outdoor view. Accents of natural elements are evident in wooden wall and brick wall fireplace.
Robert Hutchison Architecture: 316 Lake Washington Blvd. South
The drive leading up to this house is a soothing and cathartic one with full view of lake Washington and the passing of a windy forest scape to get to the near edge of water where the house is located. Hutchison & Maul architecture successfully captured the lakeview and achieved a seamless convergence of the indoor and outdoor space with spatial design and floor to ceiling windows that give way to the magnificent lake view and surrounding greenery. The white minimalist house reflects the calm and serenity of its environment – you feel like you are worlds away in within this unit. To tour this house was a real treat.
