Lovely Midcentury Renovations in the Pacific Northwest

Renowned Pacific Northwest architect Gene Zema, known for his mix of modernism and Japanese architecture, designed this house around 1974 towards the end of his career. Located outside Seattle on Bainbridge Island, the house had decayed over the years and suffered from constant roof leaks. The clients brought in SHED Architecture & Design for minor fixes but the project expanded to an overhaul and revitalization that included the rebuilding of the house’s central living space, the reorganization of the kitchen, and a new outdoor deck.

The architects added an extended deck that creates an opportunity for gatherings. It also smoothly transitions the interior level, which hovers above the ground on pylons, back to the earth. Steel columns were specially implemented so the clients could string lights over the deck. A fire-pit is now located in front of these steps.