REX 2005 Sophisticated Entertainment After a fast-paced day operating their Seattle-based business, these homeowners wanted an inviting yet sophisticated home in which to relax with family and friends. What they found was a 1950’s contemporary home on a hillside in Seward Park. They were drawn to the architecture of the home, which let in an abundance
of natural light and an attractive hillside view. However, it took only a glance inside to see that the home’s interior would need significant changes in order to fit their lifestyle. The existing entry, living room and dining area were divided into small, inconvenient blocks, which wasted space and made entertaining cumbersome.
The owners needed a more open floor plan, allowing them to interact comfortably with their guests. The wall separating the kitchen from the dining room was replaced with quartersawn cherry cabinets, providing
the open but warm environment the owners wanted. Etched glass retracting doors were installed on either side of the cabinets, as well as the window to the kitchen, allowing the owners to instantly create a more intimate atmosphere.
The once-cramped kitchen was transformed as well. Not only does the enlarged space make cooking operations more efficient, but it also allows interaction between cook and guest. New cherry
cabinetry give the kitchen a contemporary look and spacious feel, without sacrificing storage space. The curved island is ideal for preparing food or just lingering over a cup of coffee, while enjoying the view.
This former laundry room, once a strictly utilitarian closet, was remodeled into an attractive and convenient powder room for guests. The combination of cherry, maple and walnut woods in the demilune vanity adds interest without overwhelming this small space.
The owners’ family room was outfitted with a custom liquor cabinet, perfect for sophisticated entertaining. The cabinet’s intricate wood inlays echo the subtle geometric patterns throughout the house. A center pull-out section provides convenient access to guests’ favorite drinks, from bourbon to vodka.
Finally, at the end of a busy evening, the owners can slip into the spa-like serenity of their remodeled master suite (Begoun Bush Bathroom) His and her vanity cabinets mirror one another on either side of the room, blending rich tones of dark walnut with stone and glass.