March 26, 2025

SHED remodels Capitol Hill condo designed by celebrated local architect

Photos by Rafael Soldi [enlarge]

The home is one of four units in a development designed by Gordon Walker in 1979.

SHED Architecture and Design has restored and refreshed a 1979 condominium in North Capitol Hill, originally designed by prominent Pacific Northwest architect Gordon Walker.

Walker is the co-founder of Olson Walker (now Olson Kundig) and was instrumental in the rehabilitation of Pioneer Square's historic architecture, including landmarks like the Maynard Building and Grand Central Arcade.

The home is one of four units in a development designed by the architect. It is located adjacent to the densely forested St. Mark's Greenbelt and has uninterrupted views of nature.

[enlarge]

The kitchen has been completely redesigned and can now accommodate multiple cooks and entertaining.

SHED's updates focused on better accommodating contemporary living and creating a more open feel, while at the same time honoring and enhancing Walker's original design. Other goals were to strengthen the home's connection to the surrounding landscape and to incorporate personal touches inspired by the homeowner's travels to Australia, Korea, and Japan.

The two-level, 1,675-square-foot condo now feels more expansive, and is defined by open but distinct spaces flooded with abundant natural light.

On the ground level, the kitchen has been completely redesigned and can now accommodate multiple cooks and entertaining. Rift sawn white oak casework by Henrybuilt and unobstructed Greenbelt views create a space that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

The top level has been reconfigured and now features two bedroom suites (one for the owner and one for guests) with spa-like bathrooms. Both suites have accent walls of grasscloth and white oak casework, paneling, and trim. The bathrooms have walls of milestone plaster, Japanese-inspired tile, a steam room, and integrated storage. Just beyond the suites is a private patio.

[enlarge]

The top level has been reconfigured and now has two bedroom suites with spa-like bathrooms.

A redesigned stair, with a white powder-coated steel guardrail, links the condo's two levels. The stair was previously open-tread but is now enclosed to create additional closet storage and a bed nook for the owner's dogs.

In the living room, a fireplace has been updated and is now trimmed in blackened steel and set behind a quartzite hearth. Quartzite remnants were repurposed to create a custom coffee and side table. This main living space is bathed in natural light from expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that frame views of the greenbelt.

The condo has an open floor plan that connects the living room to a dining area, kitchen, and patio, where a custom concrete fire pit centers a wood bench to create an inviting space for outdoor gatherings.

The home's color and materials palette has been refined throughout. The refreshed space also has all new glazing, electric shades, and insulation.

SHED says the remodel was inspired by Walker's design philosophy “which emphasizes respect for place and context,” and merges Pacific Northwest design with the homeowner's unique experiences and tastes.

The result, according to the architect, “is a space that is both timeless and contemporary, a harmonious blend of old and new, and a testament to the power of thoughtful design.”

The remodel team also includes Thomas Jacobson Construction, general contractor; Todd Perbix, structural engineer; Spark Lab, lighting designer; Wittman Estes (original) Cambium (current), landscape architect; Henrybuilt, casework; Twisted Metal and Metal Master, steel; and Wipliance, smart home automation.

Gordon Walker currently lives on Orcas Island. Over the course of his career he has worked with NBBJ in Seattle and San Francisco, practiced in his own name for 12 years, and most recently served as consulting principal at Mithun.