Mid-Century Luxe
Perched on the north shore of Mercer Island, this 1973 mid-century modern home offers sweeping views of Lake Washington. The property was thoughtfully renovated by Dyna Builders, with architectural design by Janice Wettstone and interiors crafted by Kristi Steffen of Dyna Design. Though its bones were strong, years of updates had left the home feeling dated and dark. The renovation preserved the home’s iconic mid-century character while introducing modern livability, enhanced light, and a sense of understated luxury.
Central to the design was the reorganization of the main living spaces, particularly the kitchen. The existing layout lacked flow, making for an awkward and undefined space that lacked connection to the outside and the lake view. By reconfiguring circulation paths and adding a generous island, the kitchen transformed into a functional and inviting hub, now connected seamlessly to a newly installed deck via a wide sliding glass door. This change improved circulation and created a natural transition between indoor entertaining and the outdoor lakeside setting.
The entryway received a dramatic update, featuring a custom pivot door fabricated by the Dyna metal shop. This striking element balances privacy with glimpses of light and lake views, setting the tone for the interplay of mid-century and modern throughout the interiors. Sleek metal railings, custom fabricated by Dyna, replaced dated drywall pony walls, and introduced light and transparency to the stairwell.
In the living room, original fir beams were stained darker to complement newly added herringbone oak floors. The design retained the original fireplace, updating it with a luminous onyx hearth fitted with LED lighting for a soft, golden glow. Downstairs, the layout was largely preserved, with four bedrooms and a sunken family room offering privacy and flexible functionality. Updates included new finishes, refreshed bathrooms, and a custom hot tub discreetly situated off the lower patio. Structural enhancements, including the removal of posts and the installation of steel beams at the patio, opened up the lower level’s view and helped integrate it into the larger flow of the home.
The renovation also introduced luxe details, including elegant light fixtures, jewel-toned cabinetry, and custom furnishings. These elements strike a balance between preserving the home’s Modernist ethos while layering in contemporary glamour. The result is a residence that celebrates its mid-century origins while embracing a refined, comfortable, and distinctly Northwest lifestyle.
Central to the design was the reorganization of the main living spaces, particularly the kitchen. The existing layout lacked flow, making for an awkward and undefined space that lacked connection to the outside and the lake view. By reconfiguring circulation paths and adding a generous island, the kitchen transformed into a functional and inviting hub, now connected seamlessly to a newly installed deck via a wide sliding glass door. This change improved circulation and created a natural transition between indoor entertaining and the outdoor lakeside setting.
The entryway received a dramatic update, featuring a custom pivot door fabricated by the Dyna metal shop. This striking element balances privacy with glimpses of light and lake views, setting the tone for the interplay of mid-century and modern throughout the interiors. Sleek metal railings, custom fabricated by Dyna, replaced dated drywall pony walls, and introduced light and transparency to the stairwell.
In the living room, original fir beams were stained darker to complement newly added herringbone oak floors. The design retained the original fireplace, updating it with a luminous onyx hearth fitted with LED lighting for a soft, golden glow. Downstairs, the layout was largely preserved, with four bedrooms and a sunken family room offering privacy and flexible functionality. Updates included new finishes, refreshed bathrooms, and a custom hot tub discreetly situated off the lower patio. Structural enhancements, including the removal of posts and the installation of steel beams at the patio, opened up the lower level’s view and helped integrate it into the larger flow of the home.
The renovation also introduced luxe details, including elegant light fixtures, jewel-toned cabinetry, and custom furnishings. These elements strike a balance between preserving the home’s Modernist ethos while layering in contemporary glamour. The result is a residence that celebrates its mid-century origins while embracing a refined, comfortable, and distinctly Northwest lifestyle.
Project Year: 2025
Country: United States