SHED updates an urban loft in downtown seattle

SHED updates an urban loft in downtown seattle
all images © james f. housel (interior) & mark woods (exterior)

seattle based architecture and design firm SHED has recently completed their urban remodeling of a capital hill loft in downtown seattle. the 1,792 sq foot residence is one of the eight condominiums located in the award-winning east union building designed by miller hill. all apartments have panoramic views of the surrounding neighborhood and for the redesign, the client desired a functional space which would adapt to their day-to-day lifestyle but also have efficient storage techniques. the resulting design uses the existing building’s material palette which consists of concrete floors, zinc pan-decking ceiling with blackened steel beams and railing.

the steel base board was replaced with steel plate to create a durable storage space for bikes

subtle storage has been integrated into the interior fabric, this includes the open cabinet above the extension that directs light into the entry and serves as a place for personal belongings; the bench below creates a space for shoes, and a mirror clad wall reflects light from the living room windows into the heart of the space. the brick found in the backsplash and island was chosen for its sympathetic materiality that is forceful enough to blend in with the native steel, while the boldly grained zebra wood casework adds warmth and character.

the counter was extended beyond the original range to create a protected entry way and more kitchen space

(left) the island houses valuable additional storage, a built-in microwave and informal seating for four
(right) the wood top is easy on the elbows and the stainless steel counter is impervious to the hazards of the kitchen 

the design combines old and renovated with a mix of texture, raw materials and functional elements

targeted elements build upon and enrich the original aesthetic of the building

a lightweight enclosure of perforated steel defines a closet space without sacrificing openness

closet with perforated steel detail 

(left) an open cabinet sheds light into the entry and serves as a place for personal belongings
(right) brick was chosen for its materiality that is forceful enough to blend in with the space’s native steel

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