Wave House

“The curving forms of the main house and detached workshop pick up on the movement and activity of the surrounding environment, connecting both buildings back to the natural context. Large areas of transparency further engage the site, while windows on every side ensure daylight reaches the interior, no matter the condition or time of year.” –Kirsten R. Murray, FAIA, Design Principal

This single-family home for a couple with young children provides an open, flexible living space that supports family life, as well as an adjacent workshop and garage for the owner’s avid interest in car restoration. Gently curved roof forms are inspired by the topography of the site and Lake Washington’s undulating shoreline, creating a sculptural grouping of buildings on the site. A light approach to landscape preserves the site’s existing trees, including a Japanese maple that frames the front entry. Durable materials provide long-term, low-maintenance protection against the wet climate.

Inside, a vaulted, double-height main living area creates a casual and flexible gathering space for the family. This space features high windows to capture daylight, as well as a wall of full-height windows oriented to the view of Lake Washington and beyond. A loft above the kitchen, partially suspended from the roof structure, creates additional flexible space for gathering and play. The adjacent detached garage continues the home’s sculptural language with a curving roofline and high windows. Vaulted ceilings further echo the bright and airy interior of the home’s main living space. The garage provides a bright and airy workspace that supports the owner’s passion for restoring classic cars, as well as weather-protected storage.

Project Team: Kirsten R. Murray, FAIA, Design Principal; Bryan Berkas, Project Manager; Michelle Arab, ASLA, Landscape Architect; Kelley Pagano, Landscape Architecture Staff; Christine Burkland, Interior Design

Key Consultants: Mercer Builders, General Contractor; Coughlin Porter Lundeen, Civil Engineer; Madden & Baughman, Structural Engineer