Northgate

Northgate is a 700-square-foot detached accessory dwelling unit, completed in 2020 by Jim Burton Architects in North Seattle. The project was commissioned as a separate residence for an au pair, supporting the owners’ childcare needs within close proximity to the main house. The brief emphasized efficiency and comfort within a compact footprint, with the building positioned in the backyard to retain existing outdoor space. The one-bedroom unit is organized with a light-filled main living area, a galley kitchen, and a generously sized bathroom. A single sloping shed roof rises toward the south to maximize daylight, while an upturned butterfly section above the living room features an extended overhang, providing sheltered access to the adjacent patio. The design balances modern and traditional elements, integrating a simple form and functional layout tailored to its purpose as an independent, low-impact dwelling.