TEH

New Construction

Mercer Island WA | Built in 2014

Contractor: Ambrose Construction
Photo Credit: Ed Sozinho & Michael Dickter

Award: 2016 AIA Home of Distinction
Press: May 2016 Seattle Magazine

Perched above Lake Washington with Mount Rainier in the distance, this project began as a long-term vision—what the clients called “the eventual house.” Discovered in 2008, the original home offered little beyond its site, but its potential was clear.

Set within a neighborhood of mid-century ramblers, the design balances connection to the street with expansive views. The main floor is lined with floor-to-ceiling windows and large sliding doors that link the front and back yards, extending daily life outdoors.

The house is organized as a horizontal composition. A dark, wood-clad base anchors the main level, while a white stucco upper floor projects above. This two-tone approach reduces the perceived scale from the street. Inside, the palette follows suit—darker, grounded spaces below and lighter bedrooms above. Clerestory windows, skylights, and interior glazing bring light into more private areas.

Energy-efficient systems, including radiant heating, solar panels, and electric vehicle charging, are integrated throughout.

The project reflects a long collaboration with the clients, carried from early vision through construction and landscaping.


“STRATEGIC EMPLOYMENT OF light and dark elements—a new second story swathed in white stucco hovering above a black base—and carefully selected materials, such as luxe marble downstairs versus plastic laminate Ikea items upstairs, kept the budget balanced and created important design demarcations and connections.”

Shannon O’leary, Seattle Magazine

The design of our house is beautiful - modern classic, destined to be a landmark for the next 100 years. Allison had exquisite attention to detail, putting in tireless hours to minimize surprises along the way. Floisand studio worked seamlessly with our builder to create a high-quality finished product beyond compare.

— CLIENT

Allison's level of detail and thoroughness on a large project like this proved to be invaluable, and she was always on-call for any question we may have had, or problem we needed to work through. Most of all, though, it was a beautiful design that has made the homeowners exceedingly happy to be living in such an incredible space, and it has been a great source of pride for our firm.

— CONTRACTOR

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