A couple of empty nesters commissioned DeForest Architects for this modern steel and glass home with timeless materials and luminous spaces, perched on a hillside in Bellevue, Washington. The architects devised a solution that required a ground-up remodel of their old home, transforming a conventional suburban residence into a spectacular concrete, steel, and glass dwelling.
Transplants from Scotland by way of the east coast, these empty nesters loved the location of their home and its great views — but not the wasted space and dark awkward rooms. They boldly chose to downsize their existing home, making it friendlier for simplifying life and welcoming family from near and far.
DESIGN DETAILS: ARCHITECT DeForest Architects INTERIOR DESIGN Robin Chell Design CONTRACTOR Lockhart Suver Construction STRUCTURAL Evergreen Design Company LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT Randy Allworth
The owners desired to reduce the environmental impact of replacing a house so the existing structure was de-constructed to minimize the volume of materials sent to the waste stream, the new home was designed with less space to heat, energy-efficient heating, and a planted roof.
Despite the floor-to-ceiling wall of glass, the design preserves privacy from neighbors. This 3,625 square foot home features “switchable” glass at the entry to provide instant privacy or a dramatic view through the house at the touch of a switch. An expansive glass window wall with sliding glass doors connects the interiors to an elevated deck, capturing magnificent views west to the Olympic Mountains and Seattle skyline.
A predominant theme of “Luminosity” was used throughout, incorporating an abundance of light and the use of materials such as clear and frosted glass, translucent resin panels, and skylights. A cooler palette of blues and grays was preferred, so vibrant pops of color were selected to visually warm the spaces.
Timeless materials such as oak, walnut, glass, and steel combine with modern details to frame simple volumes filled with natural light.
What We Love: This marvelous modern glass and steel home designed for empty nesters is simple, clean, and easy to maintain. With a fantastic indoor-outdoor connection and open floor plan, this home is perfect for entertaining family and friends. Guest spaces can easily accommodate this couple’s extended family for visits from Scotland, while still being ideal for day-to-day living when guests are not visiting. We are especially loving this home’s hillside location, providing fantastic views for the owners to enjoy throughout the year.
Tell Us: What do you think of the overall style aesthetics of this modern hillside home? Let us know in the Comments below!
Note: Have a look at a couple of other spectacular home tours in the Seattle neighborhood that we have featured here on One Kindesign: Renovation unveils a mid-century modern jewel in Seattle and Elegant renovation of a family home with a modern twist on Lake Washington.
PHOTOGRAPHER Benjamin Benschneider Photography
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