David Foster Architects

Squire Park Residence

Built as a spec house, this 2003 SF residence was designed with sensitivity for neighborhood context and the appropriate use of materials and detailing

To keep costs low, a simple rectangular footprint and simple roof structure with a built-out attic was chosen. Setting lower floor into the ground and upper floor into the roof keeps scale of the house under control and gives interest to building form. Front and back of the house have porches that increase privacy by providing a semi-private transition to the street and a place for casual observation of street life.

Clerestory windows bring in lots of light while maintaining privacy. High ceilings and 8' glazed doors give volume to a compact plan.

It was featured as the AIA/Seattle Times Home of the Month in June 1998.

Comments: "A really nice example of low-cost construction that gives up nothing of its architecture in order to meet the budget. This project achieves its impact chiefly through very careful architectural design of spaces, views, and details rather than just expensive materials and is more successful because of it." -Jury comments, AIA Home of the Month program