Designing a home with a view requires thoughtful planning to maximize natural beauty. Large windows, open layouts, and strategically placed rooms enhance the connection to the outdoors. It’s also important to focus on framing vistas, using glass walls, and orienting the home to capture sunrise, sunset, or key landscape features.
This beautiful home was inspired by views of Lake Washington and the Olympic mountains. Maximizing these views was a primary design driver for the owners, who sought a minimalist, modern aesthetic that incorporated a rooftop deck, high ceilings, high windows, and a well-lit lower level.
Alair Kirkland, the builder of this home, was honored to take on the task of this client’s wishes to incorporate the gorgeous PNW views that this property encompasses. For maximum enjoyment of the views and natural light, Alair Kirkland intentionally incorporated these design elements into this home:
1. Courtyard: At the ground level, a sunken courtyard emerges from the space between the kitchen and the staircase, bringing light into both the upper and lower levels; allowing the bedroom and family room to benefit from the morning sun.
2. Rooftop deck: A rooftop deck, elevated above the guest suite, extends the living space outside, offering a space to view sunsets over the lake and mountains. “The rooftop deck and courtyard are key to tying the house to its environment”, reflects architect Andres Villaveces.
3. Outdoor deck: The space is surrounded by a wraparound covered deck that is useable year-round allowing beautiful views from all angles while providing a shaded area in the Summer.
Alair Kirkland is known for building distinctive and exceptional homes that reflect the collaboration between the client, architect, and designer. “When you are considering whether to build a custom home, it is imperative that you assemble the right team to help you through the process. One mistake that I see people make repeatedly is not choosing their builder early enough in the process. Remember that building your dream home is not just about sticks and bricks, it’s about planning and executing. To do that right you need to include all key players in the entire process,” says Alair Kirkland owner, Stacy Eakman.