Designed to emphasize the central courtyard at all times, the Helen Street House provides a reminder that nature is never far away — even in the heart of downtown Seattle.
Despite its urban setting, the home’s U-shaped design allows clear views of the pristinely manicured garden no matter which room you’re in. In addition to unencumbered views, Seattle architecture firm MW Works made sure that the garden was always within reach thanks to sliding glass doors that open from the living area to the outdoors.
The owners of the home tasked designers with creating a modern, light-filled home that gave them privacy, as well as views. Ultimately, not only did the design deliver on integrating with landscape, but it also lent a tangible calmness in the home.
Use of weathered cedar planks and reclaimed timbers add rustic charm to this otherwise very contemporary home. It also adds yet another earthy, calming element to disguise its surroundings and make inhabits feel as though they’re far from the chaos of the city.
