In a market where luxury can sometimes feel predictable, true distinction is rare. One newly completed residence stands apart, not because it is louder or larger, but because it is intentional. At the center of that intention is Max Rombakh, the number one real estate agent in Kirkland, whose role in this project extended far beyond representation.
The land has been in Skylar Jewett’s family since the 1970s. A third generation developer, Skylar grew up watching property evolve with care. Over time, portions of the original parcel were subdivided and sold, leaving two final lots. This home represents one of them, a legacy piece. Rather than pursue a predictable build, Skylar chose to create something meaningful and lasting.
Recognizing that luxury construction was not his primary specialty, Skylar made a deliberate decision. If this home was going to be exceptional, it required the right guidance. That is when he called Max.
Max’s strength extends well beyond sales. He listens carefully, understands the expectations of the luxury market, and knows which professionals can transform vision into reality. For this project, he became the connector, assembling a five-party collaboration that included architect Phil McCullough of McCullough Architects, luxury builder Mirikeen Homes, and interior designer Jennifer Kowalski of 6 Walls Interior Design, alongside Skylar and himself.
Early design meetings set the tone. Phil sketched while a team member built a live 3D model in real time, allowing ideas to evolve organically. The architectural direction leaned toward mid-century modern with subtle Japanese wabi-sabi influence. The result balances clean lines with warmth and natural texture.
Every exceptional home has a defining element. Here, it is the suspended fireplace sourced from France. Discovered by Max in a Scandinavian design publication, the piece had no local distributors. The team secured the only installer capable of importing and fitting it. It is the first of its kind in Washington. They often joke that the home was built around it, and in many ways that is true. When deciding where to make a bold statement, this was it.
The fireplace became the architectural anchor, sculptural, floating, and unmistakably bold.
Still, the true strength of the residence lies in its livability. Max worked closely on the floor plan, drawing from the thousands of homes he has toured throughout his career. The layout feels natural and intuitive. Nearly every bedroom includes an ensuite bath. Spaces flow without friction. The home functions as beautifully as it looks.
The primary suite elevates the experience even further. A skylit corridor leads to a bath wrapped in hand-fluted, green marble tile, threaded with subtle gold veining. It is both dramatic and serene, leaving a lasting impression on nearly everyone who enters.
A ten-foot glass pivot door creates a striking arrival. Dramatic roof lines, steel and wood custom shelving, and a central staircase positioned to frame glimpses of Lake Washington. Two multi-slide doors open the living areas to the outdoors, creating seamless flow for both daily life and entertaining.
The process was not without complexity, updated floor area ratio regulations required adjustments, ultimately leading to the addition of a basement. What first appeared to be a limitation ultimately strengthened the design. Mechanical systems were relocated below, a recreation room was added, and the main living spaces became quieter and more refined.
For Skylar, the project demonstrates his ability to navigate regulatory and architectural challenges at a high level, with the thoughtful execution of a long-held vision. For Max, it reinforces something equally important. His ability to listen carefully, assemble the right team, and guide a vision into something tangible is what sets him apart.
The result is a residence defined by intention, craftsmanship, and presence. It reflects those priorities with clarity and confidence, thoughtfully connected and beautifully executed. Composed and elevated in every detail, it is a home that is both distinctive and unlikely to be replicated.