There’s warmth just looking at this yellow cedar home, originally built in 1927 as a single-story, working-class Craftsman. But in addition to adding a second story and master bedroom to their now two-bedroom, three-bath home (plus basement apartment), the client wanted a house with a healthy addition of another kind. Builders and designers avoided using materials like toxic paints, and installed wood flooring and tile to keep mold and pet dander at bay. A heat recovery ventilator frequently circulates fresh air throughout the home, which makes for a healthier environment, especially in winter. Our wet climate calls for a tight building envelope to keep water from creeping through doorways and windows. A layer of outside insulation keeps things cozy. Besides that, this home is destined to wear well — its unfinished exterior of yellow cedar means the home will weather to a silvery shade, same as the winter sky.

Architect | Greg Robinson Architect
Builder | Bellingham Bay Builders
Interior designer | Angela Harasser Design Studio
Photographer | C9 Photography & Design
"There’s warmth just looking at this yellow cedar home, originally built in 1927 as a single-story, working-class Craftsman."