Hilltop Bellevue Residence

Located in Bellevue, Washington, this home was designed for the last empty lot in the architecturally significant Hilltop Community. When the neighborhood was laid out in the 1940’s its aim was to create an idyllic layout for homes in a suburban setting. Each lot was designed to maximize views and maintain its own natural buffer between neighbors. A majority of the homes in the Hilltop neighborhood were designed in the 1950’s by architects that set the precedent for what has become known as the Pacific Northwest Modern style. For the last 60 years our client’s lot was deemed unbuildable. It contains a steep slope, wetland and a stream, but it also has panoramic views across Lake Washington to Mercer Island and downtown Seattle. With patience, diligent zoning research and correspondence with the local jurisdiction and Hilltop Community design review board, Kyle and the clients were able to come up with a design that satisfied everyone’s requirements. The house is designed with 3 bedrooms and 2 baths, attached garage on the main floor and a walkout basement below. From the street the home maintains a low profile to respect the neighbor’s views. The western half of the house is less restrained and contains a voluminous great room that extends to a cantilevered deck. A large concrete fireplace creates a visual anchor for the living space. The materials palate is natural with warm tones and detailed with a modern sensibility.

Design by: Studio Zerbey Architecture + Interiors