Transforming a Seattle Home: Jessica Nelson Designs for Family Living
In the realm of interior design, the ability to create a harmonious living space that embodies both function and aesthetic appeal is paramount. Jessica Nelson, a distinguished designer based in Washington, encapsulates this philosophy with her recent project in Northeast Seattle, where she transformed a fragmented residence into a warm and inviting family home. Nelson articulates her design ethos succinctly: “Walking into your home should feel like a big hug.”
The owners of this modern home, a family with two young boys aged three and one, sought a redesign that facilitated both comfort and practicality. The original layout of the house featured disconnected spaces that failed to serve the evolving needs of the family. “We needed to update their home to be functional for their growing family,” Nelson explains, indicating the importance of thoughtful planning in the design process.
One of the pivotal decisions made by Nelson was to swap the locations of the kitchen and dining room. This strategic move not only enhanced the home’s functionality but also capitalized on the breathtaking views of Lake Washington and the University of Washington. “By reorienting these spaces, we created an area where the family can spend most of their time while enjoying the stunning scenery,” she notes. The design overhaul also included expanding the kitchen and dining area, as well as introducing a lighter color palette to counter the home’s previously dark and heavy aesthetic characterized by cherry wood and dated finishes from the 1990s.
Every aspect of the residence received careful attention to detail. The entryway features custom cabinetry designed by Construct Remodel, complemented by hand-cut drawer pulls, while Pinky’s Iron Doors offer a stylish transition between the foyer and the living area. Meanwhile, the living room showcases custom shelving and a striking concrete-cast mantel fashioned by Stone Mountain Casting, further enhancing the home’s elegance.
However, the journey to transformation was not without its challenges. “This home had a significant amount of rot we had to address,” Nelson recounts, highlighting the complications that arose from a hot tub installed in the 1970s that had caused structural damage. The renovation necessitated a complete rebuild of the home’s southwest corner, a development that placed additional strain on the project budget. “We had to value engineer to make the budget workable for them as a result,” she states, emphasizing the complexities that can arise during home renovations.
The project, spanning approximately two years from initial consultation to completion, ultimately culminated in a remarkable transformation. “The clients are so thrilled with the transformation of their home,” Nelson concludes, encapsulating the essence of her design philosophy: creating spaces that not only meet functional needs but also provide a sense of warmth and belonging. This project stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful design in enhancing the quality of family life.
