Located in Magnolia, Seattle, this home’s design deliberately embraces the history of the neighborhood. In the 1930s, the area was a plant nursery used to service the Hiram Chittendon Locks and surrounding parks. The original site featured a vast collection of vegetation that was meticulously transplanted to reinforce the indoor/outdoor relationship for this Surfer’s Retreat.

The introduction of large, operable windows provides views of the property, with decks that further expand the living space. The house is empathetic to its surroundings, using natural materials that respond to the site context. Repurposed, salvaged old growth fir cedar shakes are used for the siding and are stained a semi-black transparent color. A galvanized standing seam metal roof with industrial gutters and downspouts provide a stunning contrast to the traditional siding. Timber floors and framed windows add warmth to the interiors, while a free-standing Swedish fireplace act as the focal feature for the living room.