Exposition Heights House by Floisand Studio

Located in Seattle’s Exposition Heights neighborhood, the Exposition Heights House by Floisand Studio is a striking example of how thoughtful renovation can transform a modest 1960s split-level into a modern, light-filled family home. Completed in 2020, this project nearly doubled the original square footage, reconfigured the layout to suit contemporary living, and introduced design strategies that adapt older suburban houses to today’s urban density challenges.

A Modern Gable Transformation

Working within a tight budget, architects Allison Hogue and Richard Floisand reimagined the residence as a two-story modern gable home. By reusing the first-floor framing and the existing basement, they were able to build upward, adding a second story that accommodates more bedrooms and private spaces for the family while maximizing the property’s vertical potential.

The main level is designed for openness and efficiency. A series of linear windows frame natural light throughout the entry, living, dining, and kitchen areas while maintaining privacy from nearby homes. Essential storage and service spaces—including a pantry, powder room, and closet—are neatly integrated into a single compact core. An undulating wood screen visually separates the stair from the dining area, adding warmth and character to the interior.

Smart Spatial Planning

The upper floor is dedicated to family life. The primary suite anchors the west end with a walk-in closet, spa-like bath, and clerestory windows that balance daylight and privacy. A step-down shower cantilevering over the side yard brings a bold architectural gesture to the design. Along the south wall, additional bedrooms capture daylight and frame distant urban views of Seattle’s rolling hills.

A laundry room is conveniently located at the top of the stairs, serving all bedrooms. Practicality meets comfort, making the upper level both functional and serene.

Expanding Family Living

Floisand Studio reconfigured the garage and added a family room above it, which helped carve out a south-facing backyard for outdoor living—a private space for children and pets to enjoy. At the front, the main entry was relocated, strengthening the home’s street presence. Meanwhile, the basement was transformed into a fully equipped ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit), offering an independent living space for the homeowners’ parents and adding multigenerational flexibility.

Materials and Collaboration

The remodel incorporates materials from renowned manufacturers, including Accoya, Andersen Windows & Doors, La Cantina Doors, Mitsubishi Electric, and VaproShield, blending durability with contemporary aesthetics. Collaborations with Swenson Say Faget (structural engineers) and Plum Projects LLC (contractors) ensured that the transformation balanced design vision with technical precision.

A Model for Adaptive Reuse

The Exposition Heights House demonstrates how adaptive reuse, smart planning, and vertical expansion can extend the life of older suburban homes while creating modern spaces tailored to evolving family needs. With its mix of openness, privacy, and flexibility, the project offers a blueprint for sustainable urban living.