The original 1950’s house was well constructed, but, with 7’-6” ceilings and a stair segregating the main living spaces, it lacked spatial hierarchy and volume. In addition, the existing house failed to take advantage of its remarkable site, which offers spectacular views to the north and west across Puget Sound.

In response, much of the existing house was retained and two low slope shed roofs were added. The longer of the two roofs allows for a 600 SF second story master suite at one end of the house while providing much needed volume to the main floor living spaces at the other. The shorter roof provides additional ceiling height to the existing guest room and study. The scissor-like roof configuration also preserves the uphill neighbor’s existing water views to the NW. A relocated stair connects the new master suite to the main living level and the existing daylight lower level below. Half of the lower level provides a garage, laundry and storage rooms while the balance provides a guest apartment designed for future conversion to an accessory dwelling unit. A deck with direct kitchen access is suspended a full story above grade beneath the tall roof on the view side of the house. At the opposite corner of the house, the living room extends to a garden terrace through a corner slide fold door. On the terrace, a pool captures water that falls dramatically from the main roof, transforming storm water management into an artful display of climate and season.