The design intent for the remodel was to keep the exterior profile of this 1910 craftsman house in Seattle, yet provide a thoughtful modern upgrade to the interior space and infrastructure. There were four major challenges for this attic remodel: space, light, storage, and providing showering facilities.
Challenge 1: Perception of space – keeping the roof profile
The attic was limited to a 7′-4″ ceiling (under the collar tie) then sloped to a 4′ knee wall. The location of the stair and chimney further reduced useable area. The existing attic felt dark and cramped.
Working with a structural engineer, the existing 2×4 rafters were strengthened and the collar tie removed. Several options were reviewed to strengthening the rafter; ultimately, metal plates were fasten to each rafter. The end result is a 9′-2″ cathedral ceiling that feels spacious. The fireplace on the main floor was removed, as well as the chimney. This created additional floor area and a more efficient floor plan. Daybeds are nestled in on each side of the attic to provide additional resting areas and increased sense of volume.
Challenge 2: Light
The existing windows on the east and west walls did not provide adequate daylight or ventilation throughout the attic.
Three large operable skylights were placed on the north roof to bring in natural daylight – one in the Master Bedroom and two above the north daybed. An additional smaller skylight was installed over the shower. The attic is now naturally lit, requiring no electric lights during daylight hours. The attic was transformed into a bright and lively space with daylight and natural ventilation.
Challenge 3: Storage
The existing attic Master Bedroom had a 3’x5′ Master Closet tucked in the corner. Due to the sloping ceiling, the closet was inefficient and provided little storage. No other existing built-in storage was provided.
The design of the new Master Closet used a wood screen to separate space, yet allowed light to filter through, and eliminate the need for doors. The wood screen obscures the clutter of a closet, yet provide a visual extension of the Master Bedroom.
Adjacent to the daybeds, another storage design solution was incorporated into the kneewalls. Custom cabinets were used to maximize storage space by providing 3′-0″ deep drawers (on the bottom two rows). The faces of the drawers were designed to look uniform; however, the actual heights of drawers vary (1 bay, 2 bay, and 3 bays heights). The drawers are ideal for storing large containers, wrapping paper, sleeping bags, etc. The drawers are capped-off with a shelf, which frames the storage area.
Challenge 4: shower
The existing attic bathroom had a claw foot tub in the Master Bath. Despite its beauty, the tub was impractical and was not suited for showers.
A glass shower enclosure was designed to maximize space and light. A mosaic ‘water wall’ provided a unique opportunity for a splash of color while functioning as the plumbing chase. A small skylight was placed above the shower to provide additional headroom and ventilation. A quartz shower bench extends past the shower enclosure and provides seating and additional storage.
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Existing attic top of stairs looking east
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Attic looking east
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Attic looking west
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Master bedroom looking south
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Master bath looking east
