“The house turns its back to the street while opening up to the views to the northeast through a large glazed corner window system,” Hutchison says. One-by-four and one-by-six inch cedar siding, which were pre-stained in Cabot Semi-Transparent Black, were placed vertically and horizontally on the exterior as a subtle detail.
A single-story, dark bungalow once claimed this corner of land on the edge of Portage Bay in Seattle and always reflected the seasons. If it was cold, the two residents shivered. But if it was warm, the pair was too hot. After living with the pros and cons for 15 years, the couple decided they wanted a modern hideaway that was just right. “They desired a home that was open, light-filled, and private, as well as oriented toward the water and city views,” architect Robert Hutchison says. Privacy was perhaps Hutchison’s biggest concern, since his clients sought to finance their Goldilocks dream with help from an adjoining in-law guest house that would be open to renters. So, he and his eponymous firm found a calm, minimal balance. The second-floor living areas overlook the landscape. And thanks to a custom fireplace and wide sliding glass doors, an uncomfortable temperature is no longer a concern.