PROJECTS / MODERN REMODELS
Book House
Queen Anne House
Mid-Century Retreat
Roland Terry Remodel
Art House
House of Sound and Light
Modern Family Tudor
Lakewood Mid-Century
Big Star Condo
Modern Bungalow
Transform Your Home into a Modern Escape
At DeForest Architects, we believe every home has the potential to become a modern escape. Drawing on decades of expertise in remodeling, our team can transform traditional spaces into modern retreats by integrating clean lines, open-plan layouts, and sustainable materials that enhance both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Just as our portfolio of new homes features our commitment to modern design, we bring the same passion and care to residential remodels.
Why Remodel instead of Building a Modern Home?
Choosing to remodel an existing home instead of building a new modern home can be a smart, sustainable decision. In many cases, remodeling preserves the unique charm and character of your home while introducing cutting-edge technology and modern details. Sometimes, a location is the primary draw, whether it's the convenience of quality school districts, a spectacular view, a connection to the community, or the historical appeal of your neighborhood.
By opting for a modern home renovation, you can update your living space with sustainable materials, energy-efficient system upgrades (like solar panels), and open-plan layouts that deliver more functionality and style. This approach minimizes environmental impact, making remodeling a worthwhile alternative to new construction. This also extends the life of the building so that future generations can enjoy the renovation as well.
Designing a remodel requires a balance between preserving the integrity of the original design and introducing modern elements and amenities that enhance the way we live now. At DeForest Architects, our remodeling experts take a comprehensive approach to design. We consider the existing structure, building systems such as heating, air-conditioning and lighting, and which elements make sense to preserve like original moldings, historic fireplaces, and custom woodwork. We use creative spatial planning, sustainable materials, and updated systems to ensure that every renovation works for the owner’s needs today.
Modern Remodeled Homes We Have Designed
Modern Family Tudor
When our clients purchased this 1931 home, it was full of charming period details—but it also came with serious missed opportunities in the way the main floor was configured. Typical of houses of this era, the original kitchen was dark and tucked in on the wrong side of the house. The final result is a contemporary family home with modern fixtures and brighter finishes and an interior that now feels open and luxurious.
Queen Anne House
This Tudor Revival home was reimagined by the owner, an artist who had a vision to create a place for her family to experience and create art. Moving up through the floors, a modern interpretation of traditional details and intricate carvings gradually gives way to a minimalist attic perch clad in plywood with a view of Elliott Bay. An almost-invisible glass-and-steel entry is the only addition to the house.
House of Sound and Light
This waterfront home originally felt cluttered and outdated but had great bones with a soaring wood ceiling and expansive lake views. Working closely with the owner, our goal was to open it up, simplify the details and material palette, and create a free flow of space from the entry to lake, surrounded by the owner’s love of music and photography. A new steel and spalted maple stair connects the loft-like primary suite to the main living space, the lower level and the expansive lakefront deck.
Our Home Design Process
o Contact us for a consultation to make sure we are the right fit for your remodel.
o We’ll work with you to define the scope of your remodel and work towards a schedule and budget that aligns with your goals.
o Successful projects start – and finish – with strong teams. We’ll help assemble and lead the team that’s the best fit for your project.
o We prefer to bring in a contractor early in the design process so they can provide guidance and cost feedback early.
o Our variety of design tools, from hands-on to digital, will assist in visualizing and communicating throughout the design process.
Seattle Remodel Architect for the Pacific Northwest
DeForest Architects is a leading Seattle Remodel Architect, specializing in transforming homes across the Pacific Northwest and beyond. With an in-depth understanding of the region's climate and architectural styles, we design custom home remodels that enhance both beauty and function. Our Seattle-based team specializes in revitalizing homes with sustainable practices, innovative layouts, and meticulous craftsmanship and works closely with clients to transform their homes, from urban projects to rural retreats surrounded by the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
Lake Tahoe Remodel Architect for California, Nevada, and the West
Nestled in the stunning Lake Tahoe region, our expert team at DeForest Architects delivers exceptional remodeling services across California, Nevada, and the West. As your trusted Lake Tahoe Remodel Architect, our deep understanding of the local environment and the community enables us to craft unique, sustainable spaces that not only elevate your home's aesthetic appeal but also enhance its long-term value. Whether you're renovating a lakeside retreat or a mountain cabin, our dedicated professionals are committed to delivering remarkable results tailored to your vision.
FAQs for Modern Remodel Architecture
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Part of our goal as architects is to look at the overall picture and make a home feel cohesive. In a historic remodel project, we focus on preserving original design elements while introducing modern materials and finishes throughout, resulting in a cohesive look that enhances both functionality and aesthetic appeal. This approach not only preserves the unique character of your home but also creates a balanced environment where every space works in concert.
While it’s not always possible to remodel every area of your home, we can focus on the areas that have the most impact, like living areas and kitchens. Our goal is to design a space that makes the most of your budget. Creating a seamless flow between your remodeled space and the existing areas of your home is all about thoughtful design. We can be strategic about how to approach your renovation and work to unify the spaces through space planning, color palette, materials and architectural details.
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Enhancing functionality in high-use areas is essential for a comfortable and efficient living space. Our remodeling experts ask questions about what works and what doesn’t, and about your daily routine and aspirations. What is important to you? What will be different in 5, 10 or 20 years from now? This helps us to design solutions that optimize the layout and functionality. From expanding kitchen spaces for easier meal preparation to reconfiguring living areas for better flow, we incorporate smart design features such as built-in storage, multipurpose spaces, and open-concept layouts. These innovations ensure that every square foot in your home is maximized for both practicality and style, creating spaces that work for you.
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Engaging an architect for your remodel is critical when your project involves structural changes, complex design challenges, or the preservation of historic elements. If you’re considering major layout modifications, adding new rooms, or integrating modern features into an older home, an experienced architect can help navigate building codes, permitting and design requirements. With expert guidance, you can ensure that your remodel not only meets aesthetic goals but also adheres to safety and structural standards, ultimately resulting in a successful transformation of your home.
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The cost of hiring an architect for a remodel can vary widely depending on the scope of your project, the level of customization, and regional factors. Architectural fees are estimated as a percentage of the overall project budget and billed based on an hourly rate, ensuring transparency and flexibility in pricing. Investing in professional architectural services is a strategic decision that can enhance your home's value and efficiency while minimizing costly mistakes or missed opportunities during the renovation process. We provide clear, detailed proposals that outline all fees upfront, so you know exactly what to expect as you transform your home.
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Finding the right architect for your remodel begins with thorough research and word-of-mouth recommendations. Start by exploring local architectural firms online or through the AIA, reviewing portfolios, and reading client testimonials to gauge experience and design style. Networking at home improvement events or consulting with trusted builders and designers can also lead to valuable referrals. A targeted online search combined with personal recommendations helps you identify professionals who specialize in remodels, ensuring that you select an Architect who understands your vision and has a proven track record in transforming homes.
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Choosing an Architect for a remodel is a decision that involves evaluating expertise, communication skills, and design philosophy. Look for professionals with a strong portfolio of remodeling projects that showcase their ability to blend traditional and modern details. At DeForest Architects, we typically set up an initial call to discuss your project goals and budget and talk about our innovative process to ensure a good fit. We also rely on client testimonials as well as contractor referrals to further gauge compatibility with clients. By focusing on experience, transparency, and a collaborative approach, you can confidently select an Architect who will bring your remodeling vision to life!