Partial tear down and reconstruction of 1700 square foot modern house built in the 1950’s. Program includes addition of penthouse suite, optimized views of Puget Sound and creation of dynamic setting for family life and modern art and furniture. Building constructed by owner to fulfill lifetime dream.This design explores a modernist sensibility rooted in the Northwest but free of traditional design imperatives that can limit architectural expression and constrain site opportunities. The existing foundation, first floor deck and three fireplaces were salvaged to retain “memory” of the original building, reduce construction cost and limit environmental waste. All program functions are located within the original building footprint.The street façade is scaled low, as in the original building, providing a “perch” for the penthouse and a glimpse of its long, curved wall. Views of the Cascade Mountains can be seen from the east-facing study. The entry façade is dominated by the atrium, with its glass curtain wall extending the full height and width of the room. The master suite is accessed from this space. The west façade is tall, robust and bold, addressing the scale of the natural landscape and opening the house to dynamic views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains beyond. A literal extrusion of the primary forms, the west facade stands as a beacon when illuminated at night.Interior spaces reflect the dynamic juxtaposition of the primary building forms. The curved penthouse wall acts as a linking device and adds drama to the main and upper level rooms. The hearth dominates the center of the open plan and helps delineate the various room functions on all three levels. With the addition of the new upper level penthouse and lower level family area, the living space doubled without altering the building’s footprint.Materials are minimized to afford simplicity of surface and uniformity of intent, and include concrete, native cedar and fir, copper, blackened aluminum, ebonized oak, and natural, unpainted plaster.