36th St House

This residence is structured around two simple volumes that face one another to create a private, functional courtyard. Built specifically for a ship captain, the home’s layout and detailing draw direct parallels to life at sea. The most striking of these features is the second-story balcony, which is crafted to mimic the bow of a ship, jutting out toward the horizon with a sense of navigational intent.

The interior of the house prioritizes both view and privacy by placing the main living areas on the second floor and bedrooms at the ground floor. The elevated position for the living room, dining room and kitchen allows the home to rise above the neighboring houses, capturing expansive and unobstructed views of the Cascade Mountains and Mt. Baker through large windows that serve as the captain’s lookout. The structure utilizes exposed wood beams and a rich wood ceiling which provides a deep sense of warmth and structural honesty throughout house. In contrast, the ground floor is dedicated to private bedrooms, offering a quiet and secluded retreat from the communal spaces above. Completing the site, the front building acts as a dedicated workshop, providing a workspace to suit the life defined by utility and the elements.