Collection by Diana Budds

House of Steel

On the sandy shores of Fauntleroy Cove in Seattle, renowned firm Olson Kundig Architects crafts a subtle home with striking steel accents.

Architect Tom Kundig’s kinetic buildings commune with their surroundings through custom-made hardware and flexible design elements. For a 2011 Seattle residence he designed overlooking Puget Sound, his approach included a folded gate latch, gently curved banister, and a protective metal canopy. “We kept the house simple, but we did spring for the metalwork,” says the resident. Steel is a natural choice for important elements in Kundig’s structures. “Its strength and durability give me freedom to see those parts sculpturally,” he says.

The steel canopy protects the residents from Seattle’s notoriously rainy weather as they walk from the entry gate to the front door.
The steel canopy protects the residents from Seattle’s notoriously rainy weather as they walk from the entry gate to the front door.
The entry gate helps visually connect the garage to the main house.
The entry gate helps visually connect the garage to the main house.
Steel allowed Kunding to be playful with the staircase’s form.
Steel allowed Kunding to be playful with the staircase’s form.