Enjoying the view

Dear Friend of Robert Edson Swain Architecture + Design,

Unseasonably nice weather in Seattle has us thinking about the dramatic landscape views around our city.  On a minuscule hillside lot in Seattle’s West Queen Anne neighborhood, large glass openings, outdoor patios, and a deck terrace provide elevated places to enjoy westerly views.  Utility functions are screened at the abutting alley frontage.  The rusted steel screens, stained shiplap siding, and cedar slats provide a warm palette in our, often, rainy climate.  Visit our website for more information and images, robertedsonswain.com - Hillside Alley Residence

Throughout the house, placement of walls were carefully chosen to screen less desirable views.  In the living space, a blackened steel fireplace and walls for artwork open to views south and west.  The corner window offers views of Douglas fir and Western Red Cedar trees, providing a visual link to the Western Red Cedar ceiling.  On such a small lot, the soaring roof provides an expanded sense of space, blurring the line between interior and exterior.