3.25.22 | DIGS.NET 23
A
R
C
H
I
T
E
C
T
U
R
E
+
D
E
S
I
G
N
P R O F I L E | M O D E R N T R E E H O U S E S E AT T L E
"In addition to the usual technical consideration of a sloping
hillside, the combination of the inclination with the property
footprint, and relationship to the street together, really created
several zoning challenges," confesses Dave Norrie, principal
at Sandall Norrie Architects. "This was a major generator of a
complex shape and arrangement of the rectilinear forms — our
design challenge was [navigating] how to take advantage of the
opportunities to make a dramatic statement and at the same
time create a quiet, confident exterior and interior architecture."
The combination of glass and solid boxes that characterizes the
house allows connections between inside and outside. "It was
critical for the interior and exterior living spaces of the home to
effortlessly merge for lots of all-season living," says Glossa.
The "quite disciplined" color palette, as described by the interior
designer and the architect, consists in a mostly dark exterior while
matte white was used for the interior walls and railings, rift white
oak for the cabinetry, black frames for the windows and glass
doors, and medium-gray concrete for the floors.
"We wanted the interiors to feel spacious, with a minimal use of
materials and furnishings while still feeling inviting and comfort-
able," says Glossa. "With the exception of a little hexagonal fun
we had in one bathroom, everything is purposefully crisp and
clean with no ornamentation. The mix of rectilinear shapes are
confident but with minimal patterns. All in, everything exudes
a quiet confidence."
The furnishings and artworks — such as the countertop-to-ceil-
ing artwork of a longhorn bull by artist Robin Layton, the burgun-
dy-colored sectional and the multi-colored painting by Alden
Mason, among other pieces — add pops of rich colors and
patterns throughout. Pieces by Alfred Harris, Leah Gerrard, Ivan
Carmona, Warren Dykeman and Fernando Suarez combine with
furniture and lighting by international brands — including Knoll,
Bensen, AndLight and Vibia — as well as local designers such
as Chadhaus, Urban Hardwoods, Casual Surveying Co. and
Pivot Fabrication.
Reinvented with a vision respectful of its past, this home reflects
the inhabitants' energy and lifestyle while acting as an invitation
to admire the majestic surroundings thanks to the subtle yet
strong design.
swivelinteriors.com/
