CD 4Square

The CD 4Square project was an addition + alteration completed in 2021 that inconspicuously adds function to a charming foursquare home. The project is located in the Central District neighborhood of Seattle and was originally built in 1904. The home was built well, so we took a minimally invasive approach - Carefully integrating a new master bath, finishing out a basement, and sprucing up a living room fireplace - This approach preserved the original character and also improved the machine for living in.

The first priority for the owners was adding a new primary bathroom upstairs. This was achieved by extending a dormer across the north side and taking over what was previously low height closet space. With adequate ceiling height now in place, we cleverly integrated a new vanity over the slope of the stair and tucked the shower + toilet opposite. A bench and some storage niches were then carefully composed at the low head clearance portions created by the dormer. By only sacrificing a small closet, we were able to create a whole new primary bath - something we dubbed as ‘architectural gymnastics’ because of the clever rationing of space.

The next improvement was converting the unfinished basement into a usable den / guest room / flex space that didn’t sacrifice the necessary storage it provided. Site-built structural fir plywood cabinets placed along the east wall provided ample storage while also keeping things tidy. A site-built plywood sliding door, integrated w/ a plywood soffit concealing ductwork, allows for privacy.

Credits:

Architect: Analogous Architecture

Contractor: Ainslie-Davis Construction

Structural Engineer: Todd Perbix

Photography: Dain Susman