Asian in America

GENERAL:

In 2005 I was asked by a couple to help them as they moved to Seattle.  They were retiring here after a life spent on the east coast and Asia. They need a makeover of a 1950’s Northwest classic house to make space for their new life here, plus two large and diverse collections.

They lived for 11 years in Asia and created a marvelous Asian art collection. Additionally, Ted’s love of airplanes has led to a collection of 5000 volumes on aviation history plus memorabilia that includes parts of classic planes.

The owners made an emphasis on sustainable materials throughout. Here is a list of some of the challenges and solutions created by a team of NW Eco Building Guild members.

FEATURES:

Challenge:        Display Asian art treasures
Solution:          Custom display shelf made from reclaimed wood from urban salvaged Madrona tree.

Challenge:        Dark wood cathedral ceiling produced a dark environment.
Solution:          Created open soffit at peak of ceiling with continuous high-efficiency lighting.

Challenge:        Outdated narrow brick wall with fireplace – owner wanted a lighter colored and more monolithic surface.
Solution:          Covered brick with Clayote, a natural earthen clay material available in a variety of colors. Can be removed in the future to restore original conditions.

Challenge:        Locate 5000 volume library, with memorabilia, in daylight basement.
Solution:          Created library in basement bedroom, installing linoleum in floor. Small adjoining office updated with cork flooring.

Challenge:        Existing color palette would not work with client’s taste or furnishings.
Solution:          New color palette throughout. Low VOC interior paints made by a local manufacturer were used throughout.

Challenge:        Utilize on site rainfall for gardening.
Solution:          Install a 1000 gallon cistern at the mid-slope of the property to allow for gravity feed of water during dry summer periods.