Dear Friend of Robert Edson Swain Architecture + Design,
As rainclouds and cooler temperatures give way to our beautiful spring and summer seasons, we offer our contemporary renewal of a Seattle landmark.
Arboretum Landmark Home
We have had the pleasure of designing several contemporary renovation projects for this unique 1907 home in Seattle’s arboretum neighborhood. Constructed of split stone and timber acquired from what is now the Washington Park Arboretum, the historic home embodies the Pacific Northwest craftsman style.
Situated in a private park-like setting, exterior renovations were of a protective nature. Structural and seismic upgrades, roofing and gutter replacement, and sophisticated solutions protected and preserved historic windows while meeting today's energy requirements. All these interventions flawlessly maintain the historic character of the home.
In the latest metamorphosis, new life comes to the family's private quarters. Ascending the central stair allows entry to the intimate and personal spaces of the home. Daylight floods a once dark stair-hall changing it to a dynamic skylit atrium. Her personal study, his music studio, a family guest suite, master suite, and their associated private bathrooms radiate from the central space. Each room dynamically changes by moving large cedar with steel panels, magically opening the entire floor or providing privacy to any one room.
Whether nestled in front of a fire or simply starting the day, steel, copper, and various native Northwest wood details provide visual and tactile experiences. In each space, meticulous contemporary details frame the landscape and sky above while celebrating the integrity and heritage of this historic home.
Credits: Interior Consultant: Marjorie Yam
General Contractor: King Construction
Furniture & Cabinetry: Pat Howe
Cabinetry: Stewart Wurtz Photography: Benjamin Benschneider
