Project Description
A builder home is transformed with light, detail and an understanding of scale
BELLEVUE, WASHINGTON
This transformation shows how an understanding of context and scale can help transform a typical, but rather boring ‘builder’ home into a beautiful, light-filled, airy space. This home had good bones to begin with, but it also had a few problems: 1) the home is located on a corner lot facing an undeveloped area of land and the home did not take advantage of the light or views. 2) The windows, molding, and other details were far too small for this huge entry space. Tiny trim, a chair rail that didn’t work well in a room with 18′ ceilings, a small fireplace surround, and a standard size front door all looked out of scale. 3) The existing space had bland finishes and 4) poor lighting. All of these problems added up to a poorly proportioned and boring space.
Adding two large windows to the south facade, flanking the fireplace flooded the room with natural light and broke up a large expanse of drywall. Larger and thicker trim was added and a window sill carried around the space divides large drywall surfaces and brings your eye up. Detail was added to the ceiling to break up the space, and provide a place for two custom lanterns to be mounted. The design continued into the family room, dining room, and office.
With Melanie Gilroy Wright, Interior designer
Project Info & Tips
- Mixing materials can create a more interesting design. We used cork flooring in the dining room to compliment the existing oak flooring, and added a custom carpet in the living room
- Adding artwork to a space adds a lot of interest. Adding lighting for the artwork really makes it stand out. We designed and specified lighting that highlights the owners artwork to the fullest
- In a large space you often need large fixtures. Large lanterns were custom made for the space
- A large space doesn’t necessarily need double doors. We had a custom built 4′ x 8′ single door made to our design and specifications
- Level of Design Services: Full Services
- How do I Estimate Construction Cost and Design Fees?