Before & After

, ,

Pioneer Square: Before & After

, ,

Universal design is a good idea.
You may not have heard the term “universal design” or “accessible design”, especially if you do not have, or do not know anyone who has, a mobility challenge, such as using a wheelchair, scooter, or walker.

Universal design upholds the philosophy that well-designed, accessible spaces, do more than make it easier for those with physical challenges to get around and find places to work, eat, and nest. It makes it easier for everyone, which is what makes it “universal”.

Follow the links below to read more: 

Teagarden, Rebecca. “Cool design turns a basic condo into a home as chic as it is fully accessible.” PACIFIC NORTHWEST Aug. 8, 2009.

Renzi, Jen. “Accessibility Makes for a Movable Feast,” ARCHITECTURAL RECORD July 2008.

'AFTER' PHOTOGRAPHY  © Dale Lang, 2008

Click here for more photos. 

, ,

Tangletown: Before & After

, ,

CHALLENGE Historic photos of this Craftsman bungalow, originally built in 1924, revealed a design flaw that existed from the beginning. The steps from the sidewalk were unfortunately aligned with a view of the side porch, rather than an approach to the front door. Sometime in the 1950′s, the original pillars and railings were almost entirely replaced by wrought iron panels, window sills chopped off, and beveled cedar siding covered with asbestos shingles.

SOLUTION The new stairs borrow the scale and details of the original porch railing and add curb appeal. The transformation required skilled carpenters to replace rotten boards, restore window sills, improve ventilation, and restore the structural stability of the porch roof.

'AFTER' PHOTOGRAPHY © Dan Achatz, 2008

Click here for more photos. 

, ,

Queen Anne: Before & After

, ,

CHALLENGE  Revive the original charm and warmth of this historic Craftsman interior. Design a comfortable kitchen for a family of five within an existing narrow maze of circulation.

SOLUTION  The paint was stripped from the original millwork, and the perfect period-appropriate paint color was chosen for the plaster. A functional arrangement of appliances and ample workspace – all found within the existing walls – by simply eliminating one door.

'AFTER' PHOTOGRAPHY  © Dale Lang, 2008

Click here for more photos.