City View: Seattle Design Reveals Natural Wonders

Love of the local landscape, along with a healthy respect for the environment, runs through this city's architecture and interior design

September 13, 2012
Houzz Contributor. Hi there! I live in a 1940s cottage in Atlanta that I'll describe as "collected." I got into design via Landscape Architecture, which I studied at the University of Virginia.
Houzz Contributor. Hi there! I live in a 1940s cottage in Atlanta that I'll describe... More
Comment5
Click "Embed" to display an article on your own website or blog.
When I think of Seattle, I think of the Space Needle, sleeplessness on a houseboat, Starbucks, Singles, Soundgarden and spitting rain. Realizing this was probably a very weak and stereotypical way to describe one of my favorite cities, I decided to dig deeper and talk with architects and designers in the Pacific Northwest to get an accurate picture of the Seattle design scene.

Seattle designers universally agree that the area's unique geography and climate are the strongest influences upon design. The striking beauty of their surroundings inspires blurring the lines between indoors and out, arranging rooms "upside down" (more on that later), utilizing rain screens and living in homes that float atop the water. Other priorities in Seattle design are a profound concern for the environment, relaxed and outdoorsy lifestyles, and respect for local materials and craftsmanship. The combination of these influences results in residential designs that are unique to the region. Here are seven factors that help make Seattle design distinct.
Contemporary Exterior by Jim Burton Architects
Jim Burton Architects
1. Sustainable design.

"A misconception about design in Seattle is that solar doesn't work," says architect Jim Burton. "In fact, Seattle has more usable solar, on an annual basis, than Germany, which has the most solar per capita in the world. With the current federal and state incentives for doing photovoltaic or solar thermal, it makes a lot of economic sense too."

The passive house is the next wave here, he says. "There's a strong, growing P.H. community in the Northwest, and our climate really lends itself to this."
Contemporary Garage by FINNE Architects
FINNE Architects
A desire to live more efficiently manifests itself in overall scale as well as smart details. Architect Nils Finne characterizes Seattle style as "not showy, with an understated and restrained sense of style — small houses, not McMansions."
Industrial Exterior by Dan Nelson, Designs Northwest Architects
Dan Nelson, Designs Northwest Architects
"Sustainability has become an integral part of how we design our buildings," says architect Dan Nelson. "Rain screen systems [one is seen on this floating house] are frequently used on the exterior envelope to protect against water intrusion."

Learn more about rain screen systems
Contemporary Patio by RGN Construction
RGN Construction
"We are seeing an increase in the use of high-quality, low-maintenance and environmentally friendly Trespa panels for exterior cladding and decorative facades," says Patti Blevins of RGN Construction. "We use a rain screen system with the panels, which provides the perfect combination of style and function for our Seattle weather."
Contemporary Exterior by Eggleston Farkas Architects
Eggleston Farkas Architects
2. Making the most of the spectacular geography of the area, as well as maximizing natural light.

"The city and region are topographically varied, and the resultant slopes allow for a variety of mountain, water and city views," says architect Allan Farkas. "Thus, when given the opportunity, we tend to design to take maximum advantage of the views. In some cases this has involved doing what we've been calling an 'upside-down' house, with the main living spaces on the top floor and the bedrooms below."
Midcentury Living Room by FINNE Architects
FINNE Architects
Architect Finne agrees. "Here in the Pacific Northwest, natural light is a precious commodity, and the interiors of my projects are filled with a soft, diffuse daylight that usually comes from high clerestory windows. During the daytime hours, many of my clients do not need any artificial lights at all — the ultimate energy conservation measure," he says. "The high windows are also often operable, so that during the summer months, we can take advantage of natural ventilation."
Modern Staircase by Jim Burton Architects
Jim Burton Architects
"Strategies are blurring the boundary between the inside and outside — for example, running materials and/or design elements continuous from indoors to out, the use of natural materials, maximizing natural light and passive solar heating," says Burton.
Modern Living Room by McClellan | Tellone
McClellan | Tellone
Architect Regan McClellan agrees, noting that Seattle's architectural style has "strong responses to views, light and the use of natural materials to reflect the surrounding landscape. Large window areas fully embrace views and also let in natural light, especially during our dark winters."
Contemporary Patio by McClellan | Tellone
McClellan | Tellone
"Typically this results in single-pitch roofs that open up the view on the high side, and on the downslope side provide a more intimate scale," continues McClellan. "We almost exclusively use a palette of materials and colors that is nature based to reflect the colors and textures that are found in the Pacific Northwest landscape."
Modern Exterior by Eggleston Farkas Architects
Eggleston Farkas Architects
3. The climate is a large influence upon Seattle lifestyles and design, but not really in the way you might think.

"One misconception is that it always rains and so we don't go outside," says Farkas. "The truth is that while it stays gray for much of the winter, it rarely rains hard and doesn't get that cold. So, you put on a rain jacket and go about your business. Similarly, if you have a good roof overhang and some wind protection, outdoor spaces can be used year-round. Also, the summers are glorious: long days and no rain — we haven't had a drop in 44 days. Yet another reason for usable outdoor space."
Modern Exterior by Eggleston Farkas Architects
Eggleston Farkas Architects
"We do in fact get rain, and attention needs to be paid to it," Farkas adds. "Roof overhangs and well-detailed gutters and downspouts can turn a necessity into an amenity."
Modern Patio by Dan Nelson, Designs Northwest Architects
Dan Nelson, Designs Northwest Architects
4. Relaxed and outdoorsy lifestyles.

Seattle's laid-back attitude shows through in architecture. "Our dwellings tend to have open floor plans that reflect the casual lifestyle of Northwest living," says Nelson. "Living spaces open up to the spectacular views of mountains, water and lush vegetation. It is common for modern Seattle homes to have large expanses of glass opening up to the views. It is also common to have operable glass walls — Nana walls — or glass overhead doors opening up to outdoor rooms, terraces or gardens."
Contemporary Kitchen by McClellan | Tellone
McClellan | Tellone
McClellan also notes a movement toward less formal homes. "We're not seeing separate formal living rooms, dining rooms and kitchens," he says. "Instead these spaces are combined both physically and visually to create a less formal experience."
Contemporary Exterior by Jim Burton Architects
Jim Burton Architects
5. Use of local materials, including lots of wood from the region.

"I'd say the honest use of wood is a strong component of the Seattle style. "Honest" meaning using it in a way that serves a function, along with being beautiful," says Burton. "Wood rain screen is one way to achieve this. Also, we use deep overhangs to protect the houses from our rainy winters."
Modern Exterior by Jim Burton Architects
Jim Burton Architects
Burton used both a wood rain screen and deep overhangs on this project. Here is a closer look at the rain screen siding.
Industrial Staircase by Dan Nelson, Designs Northwest Architects
Dan Nelson, Designs Northwest Architects
Nelson also notes the wealth of natural materials in the region and its influence on the architecture. "Our dwellings tend to be constructed of natural materials such as cedar and fir," he says. "The structure is frequently exposed on the interiors."

He adds that "now there is a tendency to use wood along with steel and concrete. It is common to expose steel beams along with wood floor joists and beams."
Midcentury Kitchen by FINNE Architects
FINNE Architects
"Seattle is surrounded by gorgeous native Pacific Northwest stands of Douglas fir, red cedar and, further north, Alaskan yellow cedar," says Finne. "Wood brings warmth and a natural touch to exterior and interior."
Transitional Powder Room by Beverly Bradshaw Interiors
Beverly Bradshaw Interiors
"I think what makes a design distinctly Seattle is more the Northwest style of mixing the natural elements we are so lucky to be surrounded with here in the Pacific Northwest," says interior designer Beverly Bradshaw. "Using stone and wood, along with glass and iron, as there are so many talented artisans here in Seattle that work with all those mediums."
Transitional Bedroom by Beverly Bradshaw Interiors
Beverly Bradshaw Interiors
6. The natural color palette of the region.

Bradshaw believes that working with the natural color palette is the best way for interiors and the natural light to complement each other. "The colors of the sky, water, earthy tones and green from the trees we are surrounded by helps to bring in the Northwest look," she says.
Industrial Living Room by Tewes Design
Tewes Design
interior designer Karla Tewes likes to respond to Seattle's climate and colors another way: with bright color. "I would say that a trend on the rise in Seattle is the use of color," she says.
Modern Entry by Tewes Design
Tewes Design
"You may wear black every day and the sky may be gray most of the year, but nothing changes a mood like a fresh pop of color in your home," says Tewes.
Modern Living Room by Dan Nelson, Designs Northwest Architects
Dan Nelson, Designs Northwest Architects
7. Influence of the region's corporations.

According to Nelson, local megabusinesses influence aesthetics as well. "The coffee culture of Seattle — the Starbucks aesthetic — and Microsoft — the integration of technology — have certainly made an impact on contemporary Seattle design," he says.
Modern Side Tables And End Tables by FINNE Architects
FINNE Architects
Details that Matter
Finne mentions the influence of local corporations as well, in particular that of the highly sophisticated aerospace industry — that is, Boeing. He notes "the use of sophisticated CNC machines [and] highly sophisticated water jet, milling and machining shops" in residential design, particularly for the details.
Modern Modern
However, this use of technology has not affected local designers' high regard for craftsmanship or the availability of highly skilled local craftspeople. Finne notes concern for craft and detail in Seattle's architecture, which results in "long-lasting construction designed to weather gracefully." This is a classic sustainable way to approach design. "If we consume less but make sure that we do choose thoughtfully designed, well-crafted objects and environments, we are on the path to a sustainable future," he says.
Comment5
Sponsored
Structural Remodeling

Franklin County's Heavy Timber Specialists | Best of Houzz 2020!
With over 50 years of experience, we take pride in what we do, and we work hard to meet each client's... Read More
Sponsored

News From Our Partners

Related Products

Penny Round Mosaic Tile, 12x12", Pink
Penny Round Mosaic Tile, 12x12", Pink
$17
Octave 2-Light Vanity Fixture, Warm Brass, 3-Light
Octave 2-Light Vanity Fixture, Warm Brass, 3-Light
$178
Calcutta Tile, 11"x11"
Calcutta Tile, 11"x11"
$25
Nourison Celestial 7
Nourison Celestial 7'10" x 10'6" Sealife Modern Indoor Area Rug
$259
White Pebble Tile
White Pebble Tile
$14
Abernathy 1-1/16" Length Clear/Satin Nickel Cabinet Knob
Abernathy 1-1/16" Length Clear/Satin Nickel Cabinet Knob
$27
Comments (5)
See 2 more comments
Thank you for reporting this comment. Undo
cluelessintheyard
It's true that on that rare sunny day Seattle is simply stunning but 9 months of the year are often dark with low cloud cover. Climate really does affect the tone of a city and its people. I tried the neutral palette when I moved here 20 yrs. ago and after ten had almost slid quietly into The Sound. A remodel I did 10 yrs ago, adding glazing and opening small 1940s spaces into a large space helped enormously. But it's adding strong color to the walls and higher energy art in the "public" spaces that's been my saving grace here. So much of what's shown here is the same palette used in the ubiquitous Craftsman monoliths built here in the 90s. It's a delight to see Karla Tewes show something other than those "politically correct" dealthy dull taupes and beiges.
   
Thank you for reporting this comment. Undo
Fred Albert
Thanks for mentioning our book, Carol!
1 Like    
Thank you for reporting this comment. Undo
PRO
Quantum Windows & Doors
Wonderful to see a number of our projects featured here! FINNE Architects, Jim Burton (Blip Design),... we're in love with the Pacific NW!
https://st.hzcdn.com/simgs/b4a1633f0053831e_9-0339/midcentury-entry.jpg" src=" https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/b4a1633f0053831e_0339-w240-h236-b0-p0--midcentury-entry.jpg" data-pin-no-hover="true" width="240" height="236" onmousedown="preventImageDrag(event)" ondragstart="return false" onselectstart="return false" oncontextmenu="PhotoContextMenu.show(event,1579006);return false;"/>
Ideabook: FINNE Architects - Lake Forest Park Renovation · See Ideabook
https://st.hzcdn.com/simgs/pictures/exteriors/capitol-hill-rear-jim-burton-architects-img~3e612f530fc1974c_9-5211-1-bfd15ec.jpg" src=" https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/pictures/exteriors/capitol-hill-rear-jim-burton-architects-img~3e612f530fc1974c_5211-1-bfd15ec-w240-h259-b0-p0.jpg" data-pin-no-hover="true" width="240" height="259" onmousedown="preventImageDrag(event)" ondragstart="return false" onselectstart="return false" oncontextmenu="PhotoContextMenu.show(event,996526);return false;"/>
Ideabook: Jim Burton Architects - Capitol Hill House · See Ideabook
   

Related Stories

Modern Architecture How to Improve the Comfort of Your Midcentury Modern Home
By Colin Flavin
You can maintain the era’s signature style in your home while improving its thermal performance
Full Story
Architecture The Passive House: What It Is and Why You Should Care
By Mariana Pickering
If you don’t understand passive design, you could be throwing money out the window
Full Story
Traditional Homes Houzz Tour: 1950s Cape Cod-Style House Gets a Sustainable Update
By Becky Harris
A designer renovates a Maine waterfront cottage to emphasize energy efficiency, storytelling and vintage charm
Full Story
Green Decorating 7 Eco-Friendly Updates to Help Cool Your Home
By Victoria Harrison
Consider these energy-saving ways to reduce indoor temperatures on hot days
Full Story
Houzz Tours Houzz Tour: New Zero-Energy Home Filled With Natural Light
By Julie Sheer
A green-leaning design-build firm creates a LEED Platinum-certified family home near Portland, Oregon
Full Story
Earth Day 12 Pros Share the Top Sustainable Features They’re Using
By Annie Thornton
Design, building and landscape pros discuss the ways they’re creating comfortable, efficient and eco-friendly homes
Full Story
Modern Homes Houzz Tour: Modern Vineyard Retreat in Under 1,800 Square Feet
By Suzanne Ennis
In Oregon wine country, an efficient, earthy house inspired by simplicity, sunshine and soil blends into the landscape
Full Story
Remodeling Guides 6 Tips for Making Your Remodel or New Build More Sustainable
By Georgia Madden
Four architects reveal how to reduce the environmental impact of your home project
Full Story
Architecture 6 Ways to Make Your Remodel or New Build More Sustainable
By Georgia Madden
Create a sustainable sanctuary without breaking the bank with these must-know tips from architects
Full Story
Kitchen Makeovers Kitchen of the Week: Row House Refresh Adds Vintage Character
By Becky Harris
A designer repaints cabinets, replaces hardware, adds marble and textural tile — and donates discarded items for reuse
Full Story
| ABOUT | CAREERS | MOBILE APPS | PROFESSIONALS | BUTTONS | BRANDS | SELL | Terms |
Privacy & Notice
Houzz Inc. © 2024