A rooftop deck, an overhauled kitchen and ample glazing are among the notable features in a 50-year-old dwelling in Washington that has been renovated by US firm Wittman Estes Architecture + Landscape.
The project, Mercer Modern, takes its name from its location ? Mercer Island, a land mass in a freshwater lake just west of Seattle. Nestled into a hillside, the two-storey house is afforded views of the water and the city skyline.

Designed by local firm Wittman Estes Architecture + Landscape, the project involved updating a 3,760-square-foot (349-square-metre) house that dates to 1969 and was originally designed by architect Reid A Morgan. Its overall layout was "out of sync" with the living preferences of the clients ? a couple with two young children. In particular, the clients, Melanie and Matt Owen, desired a home with a casual atmosphere and a fluid connection between the interior and the surrounding terrain. Melanie hails from Southern California, and her design sensibilities are strongly influenced by surfer culture and beach living.

"The original house had great bones but was disconnected from the outdoors and expansive property," said architect Matt Wittman in a project description. "We wanted to give the family a way to live outside and connect with their Southern California roots."
The design team made significant modifications both inside and out. Windows and doors were replaced in certain areas, new exterior lighting was installed...