Green Lake Residence
Interview with Ryan Stephenson Architect (owner Stephenson Design Collective):
1. Can you tell us a little more about your background? What do you do for a living etc
My journey started at Auburn University in Alabama where I graduated from the School of Architecture and the Rural Studio Design Build program. I picked up and moved to Seattle with my now wife. I worked for Olson Kundig right at the beginning of the recession. Jobs became scarce so I founded my studio with a partner who has since moved on. For the last ten years, I have really focused on designing homes for clients that take their inspiration from their setting and environment.
2. Why did you choose to work with LEICHT?
Yuval introduced me to Leicht when we worked together on a home and I was greatly impressed by the quality and system that they provided. Everything is so dialed in that you really can create an amazingly beautiful and functional kitchen.
3. What are some of your favorite features in the home?
The land is really special. The house is tucked into a small lagoon at the edge of a lake and we decided to keep the area as natural and hidden as possible. We chose materials that would allow the home to disappear from the lake and designed windows that would reflect the water, to again really hide the actual structure. By staying so hidden and private, we are able to really push the boundaries with the feeling and sense of privacy inside, where we open rooms and spaces to the views that normally would be kept a bit more concealed. The bedrooms feel like they are floating over the water and the bathroom reaches right into the trees. These aren’t really features, but I believe they create what makes this homework.
4. Do you have a favorite room or space in the home? What makes it unique?
I don’t have a favorite, but it is hard not to love the laundry room. It has one of the best views in the home. There is a great old tree perfectly aligned with the window, which aligns with the skylight above that all just really come together nicely.
5. The light you get is fantastic! What is it like living in a house so close to nature?
Unfortunately, I don’t live here. But hopefully, it gives you a great sense of being and belonging so that you don’t get so crammed together in the city.
6. What are you doing to stay happy or creative during this stay-at-home time?
I was working and spending time with my two boys and wife.
7. Any tips for how to stay sane while in quarantine?
Work harder. Everyone keeps talking about taking time for themselves and relaxing. I think this is a great opportunity to put in that extra time to learn more and get better at what you love.
Architecture - stephensoncollective.com
Photography: Andrew Pogue Photography
Cabinets and countertops - @leichtseattle
Article at the PORTRAIT Magazine Seattle Nov-2022
