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“I believe in simplicity and natural materials,” says Steph. “In our home, what really pops is our things: our furniture, art, and books. And in my [Tiny Grocer] store in the same way what really pops is our products.

“One of the early inspirations was Donald Judd,” says Arthur. “That’s not where we ended up, but there was a time when every choice was ‘What would Donald Judd do?’ and usually the answer was the most minimal thing possible.”

One of the couple’s favorite new details is the built-in, L-shaped bookcase in the den.

The architects at Side Angle Side added five pairs of skylights during the renovation: two pairs in the kitchen and three in the living room.

Skylights illuminate the central staircase, which has new spindles. The Disc surface mount light fixtures from In Common With cast a subtle, warm glow at night.

Vertically installed petal-pink tile by Heath Ceramics softens the space. A sculptural Hollis + Morris fixture floats overhead.

Today the living room reflects the family’s personalities, interests, and collections. A contemporary light fixture brings renewed energy to the space.

The cabinetry and the rebuilt fireplace—with an asymmetrical hearth and curved mantel—give the music room a retro vibe. “We spent so much time getting that right,"”says Jacoby. “The original fireplace had these curves; we wanted to echo them in the redesigned space.” The glossy green tiles surrounding the fireplace are double-glazed Heath Ceramics 2x4s in a luminous Jade hue.

SHED rebuilt the deck to have only two support posts, and an integrated planter faced with COR-TEN steel to tie into the front facade.

Floor plan of Alder House by SHED Architecture & Design

“They gave us so much storage there are still empty cabinets,” says Kirsten.

Paul’s favourite spot to stand is in the kitchen looking west through the dining room windows, “I turn my head to the right and see the ‘Mr. Miagi’ tree.” The other direction, he can see through the glass to the living room where Anna Siem’s large painting hangs.

Floor plan of Pine Flat by Faulkner Architects

"The design intent was to calm down the geometry of the house," says Blue Truck Studio’s Peter Liang of the renovation.

Architect Darren Schroeder channeled Eichler’s style with a central atrium, twin gables, and post-and-beam construction.

Floor Plan of The Nest by Daria Sheina

Floor Plan of Hills Beach by Woodhull

Sitting jauntily on its block, this renovated residence in Seattle’s Mount Baker neighborhood retained the original home’s footprint. The architect (and daughter of the homeowner) opened up the living spaces inside and overhauled the exterior and landscaping to give it a more contemporary presence. Cambium Landscape created the outdoor spaces which perfectly balance hardscape with greenery.