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Photographs: Mark Woods
Text description provided by the architects. Bearing the name of the Seattle neighborhood in which it is situated, the Magnolia Residence provides a refreshing take on suburban architecture typologies. By deftly shuffling the program, Seattle-based Heliotrope Architects have delivered a home that affords views to guests and owner alike. More images after the break.
Heliotrope Architects chose a simple three-story form to stretch across the property, thereby maximizing western views of the Puget Sound and Olympic Mountains. However, in a manner atypical of similar residences, the spaces are arranged according to importance of prospect and refuge. Primary social spaces are located on the top floor where the views are best. Here, the kitchen and living spaces are grouped together in one loft-like space oriented to the views of the Puget Sound. Below on the second floor, private spaces are shielded from the street by a cedar rain-screen which enwraps the entire house.
The ground floor contains an entry, garage and an opening through the house, front to back. This covered exterior gathering space frames the view of the water for the passerby on the street. The project features unassuming modern detailing throughout; an attribute which speaks of Heliotrope's astute understanding of material and craft.
