Woodway, WA

Contemporary lines create playful and creative family spaces in this Seattle-area remodel, which kept most of the original footprint intact. The architects removed interior walls, increased ceiling height and daylight exposure with new clerestory windows in the main living spaces, and improved flow with freestanding screens.

The living room embodies the expansive spirit of the project with a wall of windows that open and a two-sided rock fireplace with a continuous indoor-outdoor concrete hearth. A long, elevated central walkway made of ipe wood forms what the homeowners call the "bongo bay." The musical family uses it as a stage where their two young children and friends can put on performances.

Great idea Install a swiveling front door. A large, square front door pivots on an axis, creating a wide opening to fully connect indoors and out. When the door is closed, its scale and shape blend with the window walls.

DESIGN Bohlin Cywinski Jackson, Seattle (206/256-0862)