© Robert Granoff

Roger Wade Studio

With a compact form and several integrated sustainable systems, the Capitol Hill Residence achieves the client’s goals to maximize the site’s views and resources while responding to its micro climate. Some of the sustainable systems are architectural in nature. For example, the roof rainwater collects into a steel entry water feature, day light from a typical overcast Seattle sky penetrates deep into the house through a central translucent slot, and exterior mounted mechanical shades prevent excessive heat gain without sacrificing the view. Hidden systems affect the energy consumption of the house such as the buried geothermal wells and heat pumps that aid in both heating and cooling, and a 30 panel photovoltaic system mounted on the roof feeds electricity back to the grid. The minimal foundation sits within the footprint of the previous house, while the upper floors cantilever off the foundation as if to float above the front entry water feature and surrounding landscape. The house is divided by a sloped translucent ceiling that contains the main circulation space and stair allowing daylight deep into the core. Acrylic cantilevered treads with glazed guards and railings keep the visual appearance of the stair light and airy allowing the living and dining spaces to flow together. While the footprint and overall form of the Capitol Hill Residence were shaped by the restrictions of the site, the architectural and mechanical systems at work define the aesthetic. Working closely with a team of engineers, landscape architects, and solar designers we were able to arrive at an elegant, environmentally sustainable home that achieves the needs of the clients, and fits within the context of the site and surrounding community. (c) Steve Keating Photography

Paul Bardagjy

Art work from Blue Print. Interiors by Tracy Hardenburg Designs.

Overlooking the river down a sweep of lawn and pasture, this is a big house that looks like a collection of small houses. The approach is orchestrated so that the view of the river is hidden from the driveway. You arrive in a courtyard defined on two sides by the pavilions of the house, which are arranged in an L-shape, and on a third side by the barn The living room and family room pavilions are clad in painted flush boards, with bold details in the spirit of the Greek Revival houses which abound in New England. The attached garage and free-standing barn are interpretations of the New England barn vernacular. The connecting wings between the pavilions are shingled, and distinct in materials and flavor from the pavilions themselves. All the rooms are oriented towards the river. A combined kitchen/family room occupies the ground floor of the corner pavilion. The eating area is like a pavilion within a pavilion, an elliptical space half in and half out of the house. The ceiling is like a shallow tented canopy that reinforces the specialness of this space. Photography by Robert Benson

Mary Prince Photography © 2012 Houzz

Photo by Greg Butler - Prime Folio Inc.

From the street, we kept the 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom addition on the top concealed by a simple shed dormer which reduces the impression of bulk and keeps the house looking cozy and comfortable. Wood carriage doors and a recessed front porch given some prominence help create a welcoming street presence. John Wilbanks Photography