Welcome to our gallery highlighting the richly contrasting Madison Park house, designed by First Lamp.

The house is a custom design standing on an existing steep lot in the Madison Park neighborhood of Seattle. The structure grows out of the hillside and allows the main living space to float out amongst the trees. This 3,200 square foot, 5 bedroom house is an energy star certified residence and was built as green as possible.

A handful of landslides had occurred in the area in past years, so this tucked-away location had been ignored or avoided until recently. After a series of site visits, the designers came to understand two things: That development here would actually increase the stability of the site, and that it would therefore be an asset to the surrounding landscape and community.

The design centered on a few specific goals, related metaphorically to the image of a tree. First is to sensitively integrate the structure with the landscape and topography. Second, to stabilize the hillside with a deep root system. Third, reducing storm water impact to the site and its surroundings.

In many ways, the design response to these goals was very literal. 54 pin piles, 5 helical anchors, and 110 yards of concrete support the structure and support the hillside. These elements are consolidated into the smallest feasible footprint, allowing the topography to surround and envelop the “trunk” of the house. The main living space is cantilevered from this base structure in much the same way branches reach for the sun.

The siding is almost 100% cedar, charred to more closely reflect the deep ambient hues beneath a grove of mature trees. The house is topped with almost 2000 square feet of living roof, acting as a filter, sponge, and aesthetic amenity for the residents.

Photography: Tim Bies Photography

From the mid-level, we see the cedar exterior framed in black, blending into the environment. An abundance of windows throughout allows natural light to further blend the home with its surroundings.

The living room spills out onto the surrounding patio via the full height glass exterior. White walls complement the muted natural brown hues of the cladding and furniture alike.

The large central chimney unites the entire structure, appearing with a two-sided fireplace in the open plan living space here. The kitchen and dining rooms share this area.

Peering around the fireplace, we see the bright hardwood flooring wrapping around toward a set of large horizontal windows and the dining table. Black leather bar stools line the counter at right.

This part of the open space centers on a weathered wood dining table over a dark shag area rug. Modern touches, like the disc-like pendant lights and metal frame seating, add an interesting contrast.

Viewed from the kitchen, we see sleek white countertops and cabinetry with contemporary hardware, with modern lighting throughout. Black I-beams add contrast and support throughout.

Next to the kitchen we see the hall, with stairs lading up and down in hardwood panels meeting on a polished concrete floor.

This family room on another level features a small dining set and countertop with sink and wine cooler. Concrete structural walls meet white surfaces for a neutral, light look.

This cozy space includes contemporary dark brown sofas and chairs, matching the burnt wood look of the exterior and chimney. The wraparound balcony can be seen through full height glass.

The floating stair design creates a perfect contrast with these light natural planks against white surroundings.

Bedroom features dark wood dressers and light bed coverings, matching the color palette throughout the home. Large windows on this top floor afford expansive views.

Bathroom continues the bright mixture of white and grey tones, with large format wall tiling meeting concrete in this corner.

Large soaking tup wrapped in tile sits below another of the large windows.

The open-design, glass enclosed shower features shelving set into the wall.

Here we see the entire structure in profile view, climbing the hill. The sharp lines and natural wood exterior contrast perfectly in this natural setting.