Whimsy in the Details

Great design thrives in the details. In the particular curve of a staircase. In meticulously crafted eaves. In the blending of a home into the hillside. It creates character in a luxury home and fosters a constant state of curiosity for homeowner and guest alike.

Seattle architecture company  Gelotte Hommas Drivdahl’s Lakefront Gothic project relishes architectural details. The luxury home’s nineteenth century gothic-inspired architecture invites opportunities for intricacy in brickwork, woodwork, landscaping, and beyond.

From the first approach to the lakeside house, Curtis found ways to infuse it with artistic charm. The timber auto court entrance provides a striking welcome to the private garages, and the structure’s projecting beams feature profiles of bear faces.

 

A Seattle architect brings whimsy to this dream home's architectural details.

 

Strategic bolts form eyes, and thin slits in the wood create mouths for the friendly guardian bears. Curtis further fashioned bear cubs into the triangular truss’s rafter tails (not shown).

Twentieth century arts and crafts style architect Bernard Maybeck provided inspiration for this sprinkling of playfulness into the stately luxury home. Curtis comments, “There’s a lot more whimsy in these old, formal buildings than many realize.”

A Seattle architect brings whimsy to this dream home's architectural details.

And it’s true. Formal doesn’t need to be devoid of fun. Accentuating colors, carved eaves, and consistent imagery carried throughout a home add vibrant life to homes and blends formal design with familial living spaces. What’s more, it sparks creativity and endless possibility—two concepts the Seattle architecture company relishes. Paying attention to architectural details makes a dream home uniquely yours and reflective of your tastes, your personality, and your family’s story.

We would be honored to help you infuse intricate detail and touches of whimsy into your dream home, no matter your preferred style.