prairie-style townhome

This project started with a unique 1970s townhouse constructed by Seattle architect Milton Stricker, who studied under Frank Lloyd Wright. The homeowners, two of OOA’s architects, purchased the property from the son of Stricker and so it retained many of its original details including the original kitchen and millwork. After 50 years, however, some parts of the house needed a refresh and so OOA set about to create spaces that worked for modern life but looked as if they had always been part of the home.

Much of the project centered around the kitchen. The remodel reused many of the kitchen cabinets and repurposed others to customize the layout. OOA also added open shelves inspired by original shelving found in other rooms of the home. Elements like new appliances, countertops, and even an induction range hidden under the new porcelain counters made the kitchen more functional and gained workspace, essential in a small home.

The backyard also expands the house and creates new areas for living. Previously an unremarkable patio, OOA decided to enclose the space under the deck for extra storage and to conceal an unsightly crawlspace. Custom angled concrete walls and stairs hearken back to Frank Lloyd Wright’s designs while a cantilevered bench provides an ideal hang out zone. The space is an ideal marriage of modern life and vintage details.

Year: 2024

Builder: Triple Bottom Line Construction

Casework: Timbra

Photos: Emily Keeney