The idea of an authentic home, to me, has everything to do with the powerful intersection of artistry, lifestyle and sustainability. How do you maximize the elements of a space while also bringing out its creative potential?
Authenticity is when design and intention harmonize, as with this Addition / Remodel in Leschi. There’s an honesty to how this home was tailored to fit their lifestyle, in a practical sense. Every square inch of space is used, including a loft space that features a climbing wall along the sloped ceiling. The structure (exposed beams) and hand crafted finishes, like the Heath tile backsplash and Formology shelving, offer warmth and genuine self-expression.
This house was designed for authentic living, and the outcome was stunning.
As a family with kids, Nick & Elizabeth wanted simplicity in their home, and personally they very much value sustainability, so a major aspect of their dream home was to use locally-sourced and ecofriendly materials. In regard to how the SZ team addressed these requests, they said,
Lara is amazing -- she understands our style and has helped us find great finishes. I have especially appreciated that she finds locally-made unique items to incorporate, but is also conscious of our budget.
They also requested a design that maximized space and the views. This maximization of space included a redesign of the basement, and they wanted their kitchen redesigned as a space for socializing, since they love cooking and hosting gatherings.
We asked the clients what they are most excited about regarding their new home, and they shared,
We are most excited about having a big open kitchen and living area -- we spend a lot of time cooking and entertaining! We're also really excited about having a new deck that takes advantage of the view. And of course, we're really looking forward to having a basement that's integrated into the rest of the house (and doesn't leak)!
The basement, which was an important aspect of the original design too, was also a significant piece of the re-design.
It was also really important to us to have a basement space that was not completely separate, but still offered privacy to our visiting family members. My mom has a visual impairment so Suzanne and Lara have been able to help us with design and lighting choices that will make the space more usable for her.
For the basement, the team created a design that included a single bedroom and bathroom with washer/dryer hookups. The living room in the basement also provides a space for movies and games, giving the family another place to enjoy time together.
While the process was stressful at times, the clients were still positive and enthusiastic about continuing to redesign and build their new home.
We've learned a ton! Suzanne and Ed have a wonderful dynamic as they approach all the challenges that come with a major project like this. Their good humor has gotten us through some very stressful moments. They are both very responsive when we need more information or request last-minute changes.
While the process definitely had its twists and turns, the clients are still happy to see the final product and move into their dream home. The SZ team is honored to be part of this design and construction process, and we're thrilled to see our clients enjoy their authentic home.