New home, designed by Seattle’s COOP 15, was built by Hammer & Hand atop foundation of old.
In 2001 Hammer & Hand collaborated with Seattle architect Lane Williams of COOP 15 and clients Ian and Deny to transform their Council Crest property. (Check out the portfolio page for this whole house remodel here).
“A bland and dated home on a steep site provided the platform for this project,” Lane said. “We essentially built a new home on top of the existing foundation.”
Photography by Laurie Black
A new roofline cantilevers well beyond the main edge of the existing basement. A wall of windows delivers spectacular, unobstructed views of Portland and mountains beyond. Exterior Finply paneling imitates the window’s offset layout.
“We set out to create a custom home that took advantage of the view,” Ian said. “Mission accomplished.”
Ian and Deny enjoyed working with Lane:
“When we met with Lane, we knew. His design sense and material palettes were substantially different then the other architects in Seattle. We also liked the fact that Lane ran a boutique shop, only residential homes. Getting to choose everything your heart desires with the collaboration of an artist who has Lane’s clean sensibilities is a memorable undertaking. Getting to see the latest design drawings was akin to seeing the latest playmate of the month; always a thrill.”
Bamboo floors and exposed beams grace the dining room.
A stainless steel island with granite countertops provides the focal point for the kitchen. Maple cabinetry provides a nice contrast to metal finishes.
“The island ends up the as the social hub,” said Ian. “It’s a good place for people to collect and chat.”
A load-bearing wall, built of ground-face concrete blocks, makes the home’s open layout and walls of windows possible and protects the home against earthquakes.
“The aesthetic of the house is great,” said Ian. “Lane and his team came up with a solution which we all truly enjoy and call home.”
– Cody
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