Lark House by SHED Architecture & Design

Since it was built in 1958, Lark House has reinforced the modernist achievements of architect Al Bumgardner across Seattle. Admiring the original design philosophy, SHED Architecture & Design renovates the home with care, adapting it for contemporary living.

Perched atop a cliff in West Seattle, Lark House provides sweeping views of Vashon Island, the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound. Such vistas were highly considered during the renovation process; the design brief presented the modernised Lark House as more open, functional and engaged with the picturesque surrounds. Additionally, the home captures a natural material palette that echoes the original design ethos while expressing personal taste. Curated art and furnishings, inspired by the owners’ experiences abroad, enliven the interior.

the home captures a natural material palette that echoes the original design ethos while expressing personal taste.

Throughout Lark House, the existing and additional elements harmonise to retain the original sense of spaciousness. Externally, new glazing and cedar siding contribute to the textural profile of the facade, while colour and warm, outdoor lighting mark the entrance of the building. A custom pivot door with a black suede handle enables a luxurious transition into the entryway, which is defined by white oak casework, a tan leather bench and a run of concrete floor tiles. At the end of the tiles is a floor-to-ceiling glass panel framed in black-painted cedar, offering a charming view of the outdoors.

In the kitchen, the mid-century architecture remains, except for a wall that was removed to strengthen the home’s connection to Puget Sound. A rejuvenated material palette sees the Douglas fir and unpainted cedar used by the original designer Bumgardner juxtapose the new white oak floors, Calacatta gold marble countertops and a Nero Marquina marble island. Integrated appliances, a breakfast bar and built-in breakfast nook enhance the functionality of the communal space.

Throughout Lark House, the existing and additional elements harmonise to retain the original sense of spaciousness.

Reconfiguring the primary bedroom, SHED Architecture & Design establishes a space that better reflects the ideals of contemporary living. A new entrance, created by an enlarged walk-in wardrobe, prolongs the passage into the room to promote relaxation. The existing two-way fireplace between the bedroom and living room has been restructured so that, in the former, the feature is covered by glazed brick tiles. These tiles not only evoke the cosy ambience of a hearth but also contribute to a heightened sense of privacy. Carefully positioned lights and mirrors add further detail to the soothing ambience, as objects receive gentle and even illumination.

Expressing the relationship between modernist design and contemporary living, Lark House demonstrates that it can continue to enrich lives today. The respectful approach of SHED Architecture & Design is evidenced by a home that, post-renovation, still speaks to the design values proudly held by its original architect.

Architecture by Al Bumgardner and SHED Architecture & Design. Interior design by SHED Architecture & Design. Build by Ambrose Construction.