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Location: Kirkland, WA
Builder: Tom Braaten Construction
Project Type: Custom Home
4D Project: 11024
4,000 square feet of living space (including ADU), 2 car garage
Master Suite plus guest room, 2.5 baths on 3 floors
Features: great room, study, large covered outdoor decks, separate accessory dwelling unit on ground level
This Kirkland site, within walking distance to the city center and its restaurants, shops and amenities, provided a number of design opportunities, including the panoramic views of Lake Washington and an orientation providing abundant solar access. A number of constraints also had to be accommodated: a significant side slope and the owners' desire to capture the views from the highest elevation of the site, afforded a relatively narrow building envelope, which was further restricted by City zoning code for setbacks, height limit, floor area ratio and impervious coverage on the lot.
Balancing all of these factors, 4D Architects was able to design a unique home for these clients, accommodating their preference for a modern style and an open floor plan and maximizing the home’s orientation to sun and views. The site topography allowed for the placement of the garage below the house, with side-facing doors, deemphasizing the garage and lengthening the driveway to provide additional off-street parking while reducing the driveway slope. With the main and upper levels of the home at a higher elevation, ample windows capitalize on the prominent water views while covered outdoor decks provide plenty of sheltered outdoor living space. The main floor is dedicated to an expansive Kitchen/Dining/Great Room space, with a separate, private bedroom behind to accommodate guests. The upper floor is dedicated to the master suite and study, including generous walk-in closets and built-in cabinetry. A separate accessory dwelling unit on the ground level provides flexibility for accommodating family, guests or tenants. A signature stair connects the three levels of the home, emphasizing the contemporary design and open feel of the space.
Photo Credit: Michael Seidl Photography