Under Wrap

The framing for the addition at the basement level and main level is well underway. The contractor has put a tarp over the addition and the areas where the existing roof has been removed. The entire existing roof will eventually be removed and the second floor framing will begin very soon.

This week the window order is being reviewed as well as bids for cabinets and tile work.

Project Begins

The project was started promptly after selecting STS Remodeling as the contractor. The existing masonry chimney was demolished and the owner's temporary living quarters were skillfully placed in the back yard. There were some nervous moments squeezing the trailer down the side of the house, but thanks to extra efforts by the contractor and careful driving by the owner, the owner's trailer found it's new place for the duration of the project.

First, six new pilings were placed for the new addition foundation on the north side of the existing house. Then the foundation concrete was poured. Also, the interior finishes and fixtures were removed from the existing main floor to expose the old framing. There was one piece of history to note, the signature of "Roy Morriss" was found on one of the corner braces. So far, Roy's signature is still on the building he probably helped to construct.

West Seattle Remodel

The view, it’s all about the view. Oh yeah and a place to enjoy it from. This small West Seattle cottage is in a great place. Close to the West Seattle Junction, close to schools, close to recreation and a panoramic view, through an 11’ wide picture window. The view extends from the Olympics, looks north across West Seattle and to Elliot Bay and downtown Seattle. The space was a bit too economical for a growing family of four. The main floor was pretty basic, living, dining, kitchen, 2 bedrooms and a bathroom in 1000 square feet. The garage and unfinished basement was mostly used for storage and laundry.

The owners were looking for a remodel that would increase the size of the house, but maintain an appropriate scale and character with the neighborhood. But where to begin, how about speed dating for architects, contractors and clients? After making a connection with Craig Haveson of STS Remodeling, he gave them good advice to “look for an architect to define your dream”. Asking co-workers and searching the internet they found Peter D. Swindley Architects and Interiors. The owners met and talked to Peter, and were convinced that they had found a “wise sage” of architecture.

The owners had some ideas of where to start. A 2^nd floor addition for “living” and enjoying their place. A elevated deck on the east side of the home would provide outdoor living could still provide a direct access to the rear yard. A small deck on the west could provide “eyes on the street” and views to the west and the Olympics beyond.

A very small addition to the foot print was needed on the north side of the house to accommodate all the program requirements and also provide some additional structural updates to the original building.

The Main Floor would be a point of entry. A den and 3 bedrooms could occupy most of the space and still provide enough room for a central entry stair to ascend to the upper level.

A majority of the basement would have to wait for future improvements. Some accommodation of the new structures required for the upper floor could occur with little impact to the future development of this space.

Follow along with this blog during construction and find out how the project is shaping up!