# A 1910 Seattle Beach House Gets a Colorful Makeover Shed Architecture transforms a historic coastal residence using bold palettes and functional spatial reconfigurations. - **Source:** [Design MilkArchitecture, Architectural Designs, and House Designs | Design Milk](https://brifing.si/source/5d8362a6-0dbb-41cc-9b0e-4e8cac0c9318) - **Published:** 2026-10-30 - **Topic:** [Design & UX](https://brifing.si/c/design) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/62070a49-c839-4c1d-b1b8-9f52ac3a479c ## Historic Structure Reimagined Originally constructed as a log cabin in 1910, the 2,706-square-foot Alki Lookout property underwent two previous remodels before this transformation. Seattle-based firm Shed Architecture identified a lack of cohesive identity in the residence. They focused on preserving the existing structure while introducing a vibrant, unconventional aesthetic to replace standard coastal design tropes. ## Strategic Spatial Reconfiguration The design team executed a fundamental layout change by swapping the kitchen and dining areas. This move resolved awkward circulation issues and positioned the dining banquette to capture views of Puget Sound. The reconfiguration also allowed for increased kitchen storage and a more fluid connection between the primary cooking and living zones. ## Curated Material Palette Designers utilized vertical-grain fir cabinetry to provide warmth, contrasting with pink Concrete Collaborative countertops and Zia Tile backsplashes. A central tiled fin wall, featuring Alex Proba’s Moroccan Mix tiles, serves as the project's anchor. These salmon, yellow, and blue tones establish a consistent color language that flows throughout the entire home. ## Functional Storage Solutions The primary suite renovation prioritized practical utility alongside aesthetic updates. By reworking the stair area, the team increased storage capacity by approximately two and a half times. Custom built-in cabinetry and a bed frame with concealed drawers maximize the footprint, while a mirrored transom above the entry enhances the perceived vertical height. ## Playful Bathroom Aesthetics The design team extended the home's expressive personality into private spaces through abstract interpretations of marine environments. The guest bathroom features undulating blue-and-white Zia tiles paired with Hygge West’s Underwater World wallpaper. Terrazzo surfaces and warm wood cabinetry maintain material continuity while ensuring each room retains a distinct, playful character. ## Exterior Artistic Expression An unexpected waterproofing issue necessitated siding replacement, providing a canvas for public art. Seattle artist Stevie Shao created a vibrant mural depicting local wildlife, including whales, osprey, and cranes. This exterior addition serves as a community-facing expression of the homeowners' creative spirit, visible from the public beach located directly below the property. ## Balancing Boldness and Calm While the project utilizes saturated colors and expressive patterns, the designers incorporated white oak flooring and warm wood surfaces to provide visual relief. These natural elements act as a quieter counterpoint to the more adventurous finishes. This balance ensures the home remains comfortable for daily living despite its high-energy, surf-inspired interior design. ## Impact of Targeted Design The Alki Lookout project demonstrates that significant transformations do not always require massive structural expansions. By focusing on circulation, material selection, and artistic integration, the architects successfully infused the century-old home with a new identity. The result effectively bridges the gap between the property's historic roots and the owners' contemporary lifestyle. ## Sources covering this story - https://design-milk.com/alki-lookout-seattle-beach-house/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._