Designs We Like

While we ordinarily spend our days turning our clients’ dream homes into a reality, we also embrace opportunities to flex our creative muscles and apply our skill to other creative ventures. Last week, we traded our drawing boards for 5-by-5-inch cocktail napkins and entered our designs into the Architectural Record Cocktail Napkin Sketch Contest. The …

Modern architecture tends to be a proliferation of straight lines, but it doesn’t have to be. Adding curved elements creates whimsy and interest in the home. Rounded doors with windows are particularly nice for creating a welcoming entrance or focal point for a room. These curved top french doors leading to a small balcony make …

A bathroom is a necessity, but it can also be a luxury. A well designed layout with expertly styled decor can transform a simple bathroom into an awe inspiring space. Here are some custom bathrooms that are so luxurious you may never need to go to a spa again. Photo by Gelotte Hommas Architecture  This …

The home office use to be the realm of CEOs and intrepid entrepreneurs, but  things have changed. Of course, a home office can still be used for running your business, but it doesn’t have to be. Having a space to store important documents and work on home budgeting can be just as significant. With the …

With the 4th of July holiday this weekend, many people probably wish they had a pool in their backyard in which to cool off. You may think that a pool will only fit a certain type of house, but these days a home pool can be designed to fit with any architectural style. Photo by …

There are a myriad of ways to add color and interest to a room but one which we often forget about is wallpaper. Decorating with wallpaper got its start during the Renaissance when people couldn’t get their hands on tapestries but still wanted to spruce up their rooms with large pretty pictures. Over the centuries, …

Seattle architecture firm Gelotte Hommas Drivdahl relishes opportunities to practice the art of architecture in every detail. This beautiful spiral staircase is part of Hillcrest Farm and works its way up the observation tower. At the base is a nearly life-size bear statue accompanied by a small garden area. It is a bit of a hike …

Remodeling a home can take as much work, if not more, than designing and building one from scratch. To be done properly, the home renovation must take the original structure and meld new ideas and materials with it to create a cohesive design. The Lakefront Splendor home renovation is an excellent example of taking an …

Not all homes in the Pacific Northwest are log cabins. Contemporary residential architecture is thriving in the Northwest, and we have our own particular take on it. This Northwest Perspectives home is a perfect example of this. The home is modern and functional without being cold and aloof. As proof, just look at this stunning …

Technically, summer does not start for another 20 days or so but don’t tell that to the weather.  It is now the perfect temperature to enjoy your beautiful new outdoor living space. What’s that? You don’t have one? Well then here are some idea that just might inspire you to create one. Photo by Gelotte …