Mercer Island Residence was designed to be an open and functional home by Stuart Silk Architects, located on Mercer Island, Washington. The goal of this project was to turn a house with little or no connection to the outside into an open and functional residence. Originally designed by an engineer who designed office buildings, the house had an introverted presence and grand scale. The owners wanted something contemporary and functional and most importantly, usable.

Our concept was to re-center the house around the central living spaces. We carved out a formal dining room and restructured the stairs to be more efficient and effective in organizing the circulation through the house. Windows replaced glass block and doors that reflect the grand scale of the home become transitions and views from the beautiful views overlooking the yard and the lake. A new kitchen with an open plan transforms the kitchen into the hub of the home that provides the space for gourmet cooking and still be a place for family to gather.

The exterior of the house received architectural upgrades that broke up the massing and scale to be more residential and visually organize the facade. The interior went through a large transformation as rooms were realigned with current needs of the owner. The master suite was enlarged with a new bathroom and a large skylight over the tub to flood the previously dark space with light. Interior finishes, lighting, and updated plumbing turn into well appointed rooms that are refreshingly comfortable and light-filled.

Photos: Alex Hayden