When a Bellevue homeowner running a custom woodworking business needed a space that could serve as both workshop and inspiration, Better Builders delivered a thoughtful solution. We replaced the original garage with a 1,500 sq. ft. addition, designed to maximize functionality and create a modern, efficient workspace. The result blends practical needs with striking design, all while maintaining the charm of the home and meeting local zoning requirements.

For one devoted Seahawks fan, game day isn’t just about the kickoff; it’s about the entire experience. Living nearly 50 miles outside of the city made getting to Lumen Field a full-day commitment, so when the opportunity came to purchase a downtown penthouse in Belltown, the vision was clear: create the ultimate home base for entertaining, relaxing, and pre-gaming before every home game. Better Builders was brought in to transform the entire penthouse, reworking the entryway, kitchen, four bathrooms, and laundry room into a sleek, contemporary space with Seattle sports at its core. From the moment you step inside, the design sets the stage with bold lighting, high-end finishes, and a layout built for gathering. The kitchen was crafted with seamless entertaining in mind, while each bathroom was elevated with clean lines and modern touches. But the centerpiece is the living space. Designed around the ultimate TV and lighting setup, the room delivers an immersive viewing experience where every Seahawks play feels larger than life. It’s more than a remodel; it’s a celebration of Seattle spirit, bringing friends together for good food, big games, and unforgettable nights in the heart of the city.

Example of a 1950s bedroom design in Orange County

This 1950s 6’x8’ bathroom was reimagined to match the vision of a young professional couple seeking a sleek, luxurious design. Better Builders transformed the cramped space by removing the tub and installing a curbless shower with a linear drain and glass wall, creating an open and airy feel. To visually expand the room, smokey gray tile was installed throughout, paired with striking blue granite slab accents inspired by the homeowners’ travels. Creative storage solutions included a floating teak shelf that extends seamlessly across the back wall and a compact vanity replacing the pedestal sink for added counter space. Modern fixtures, including a Bluetooth-enabled Robern lighted medicine cabinet, completed the transformation, delivering both style and functionality. Thoughtful design choices and innovative space planning solutions maximized every inch of this small bathroom, bringing the client’s vision to life.

This Kirkland kitchen and dining addition transformed a tight 1970s galley layout into a spacious, entertainer-ready kitchen designed for modern living. To create the room the homeowners needed, the southwest exterior wall was removed, and a carefully planned addition expanded the footprint, while eliminating the partial wall between the kitchen and dining room, opening the floor plan for better flow and connection. The new space features white Bellmont shaker cabinetry, PentalQuartz® Zion countertops, and warm chestnut bamboo flooring, layered with recessed lighting, statement pendants, and under-cabinet LEDs for a bright, functional finish. The expanded layout also allowed for a full laundry room and a generous walk-in pantry with built-in storage and a frosted glass door etched with “Pantry.” High-performance appliances, including a Sub-Zero refrigerator, Wolf range, pot filler, and apron-front farmhouse sink, complete the chef-ready design.

Completed in 2015, the Othello House was designed by PRDG Architecture + Design and built by Better Builders as a striking example of modern living in West Seattle. Though the homeowners chose not to pursue formal certification, the project was built to meet the rigorous standards of a Five-Star Built Green™ home. From the ground up, sustainability and style were equally prioritized. The build preserved native vegetation, retained mature trees on-site, exceeded Washington State Energy Code requirements, and recycled over 70% of construction waste by weight. Recycled-content materials were thoughtfully incorporated throughout, reinforcing the home’s eco-conscious foundation. Large windows on all sides flood the interiors with natural light, while the surrounding landscaping is designed to highlight lush greenery and native plantings. The result is a home that combines premium modern design with environmental responsibility—proving that sustainable construction can also deliver the ultimate in comfort and function.

Manufacturer: Starmark Cabinetry Style: Maple Stratford w/ H Edge and Five Piece Drawer Fronts Finish: Paint – Macadamia w/ Nickel Glaze Countertop: Soapstone (Customer’s Own) Sink: 16-Gauge Stainless Steel Single Bowl Under-mount Faucet: (Customer's Own) Backsplash Tile: Hand-cut and glazed (Customer’s Own) Hardware: Brushed Nickel 160mm/96mm pulls and 38mm knobs (Richelieu) Designer: Devon Moore Contractor: Customer's Own

Manufacturer: Starmark Cabinetry Style: Maple Stratford w/ H Edge and Five Piece Drawer Fronts Finish: Paint – Macadamia w/ Nickel Glaze Countertop: Soapstone (Customer’s Own) Sink: 16-Gauge Stainless Steel Single Bowl Under-mount Faucet: (Customer's Own) Backsplash Tile: Hand-cut and glazed (Customer’s Own) Hardware: Brushed Nickel 160mm/96mm pulls and 38mm knobs (Richelieu) Designer: Devon Moore Contractor: Customer's Own

Detail of the custom wood slat wainscoting in the Madison Park Moody Playroom: A Flexible Guest Suite. Vertical stained wood slats add warmth, texture, and protection along the lower half of the wall, while a lively animal and floral wallpaper above brings color and pattern to this first-floor kids’ playroom and guest space. The combination of durable paneling and whimsical wallpaper creates a family-friendly backdrop that feels elevated enough to welcome overnight guests.

Manufacturer: Ultracraft Style: Maple Royalton Paint w/ Glaze: Arctic White w/ Nickel Glaze Countertop: Cambria Quartz - Laneshaw Sinks & Fixtures: Blanco Diamond Under-mount ¾ sink in “Café Brown” Backsplash Tile: Genesee Tile 3” x 12” glass subway in “Sand” Designer: Devon Moore Contractor: NJB Construction Services LLC

A walk-in shower with custom glass entry and a river rock pebbled base. Soothing neutral colors including a custom tiled shower shelf.
Example of a 1950s bathroom design in Orange County

Completed in 2015, the Othello House was designed by PRDG Architecture + Design and built by Better Builders as a striking example of modern living in West Seattle. Though the homeowners chose not to pursue formal certification, the project was built to meet the rigorous standards of a Five-Star Built Green™ home. From the ground up, sustainability and style were equally prioritized. The build preserved native vegetation, retained mature trees on-site, exceeded Washington State Energy Code requirements, and recycled over 70% of construction waste by weight. Recycled-content materials were thoughtfully incorporated throughout, reinforcing the home’s eco-conscious foundation. Large windows on all sides flood the interiors with natural light, while the surrounding landscaping is designed to highlight lush greenery and native plantings. The result is a home that combines premium modern design with environmental responsibility—proving that sustainable construction can also deliver the ultimate in comfort and function.

This close-up captures the refined material palette of a transitional powder room remodel. Against deep navy blue walls, a built-in wood vanity provides a warm, grounded feel that maximizes the small footprint. The vanity is paired with a durable white quartz countertop featuring subtle grey marble-style veining, a sleek matte black faucet, and matching minimalist hardware. The ambient glow from the backlit LED mirror reflects off the polished quartz surface and a delicate eucalyptus arrangement, creating a high-end "jewel box" atmosphere.

Modern Farmhouse style executed perfectly with great workmanship and attention to details in every corner of this San Clemente, CA home. | BetterLivingSoCal.com

In collaboration with architect Gustavo Penengo of PRDG Architecture & Design, Better Builders brought this bold contemporary vision to life. Built using modular construction on a steep lot once considered “unbuildable,” the home required a highly engineered foundation with H-piles driven 40 feet into the hillside. The offsite-built sections allowed for precision assembly and made possible dramatic cantilevers, expansive views of the Sound, and an energy-efficient design. The finished home showcases modern architecture at its finest—creative, sustainable, and perfectly suited to its unique site.

Manufacturer: Ultracraft Style: Maple Royalton Paint w/ Glaze: Arctic White w/ Nickel Glaze Countertop: Cambria Quartz - Laneshaw Sinks & Fixtures: Blanco Diamond Under-mount ¾ sink in “Café Brown” Backsplash Tile: Genesee Tile 3” x 12” glass subway in “Sand” Designer: Devon Moore Contractor: NJB Construction Services LLC

This Kirkland kitchen and dining addition transformed a tight 1970s galley layout into a spacious, entertainer-ready kitchen designed for modern living. To create the room the homeowners needed, the southwest exterior wall was removed, and a carefully planned addition expanded the footprint, while eliminating the partial wall between the kitchen and dining room, opening the floor plan for better flow and connection. The new space features white Bellmont shaker cabinetry, PentalQuartz® Zion countertops, and warm chestnut bamboo flooring, layered with recessed lighting, statement pendants, and under-cabinet LEDs for a bright, functional finish. The expanded layout also allowed for a full laundry room and a generous walk-in pantry with built-in storage and a frosted glass door etched with “Pantry.” High-performance appliances, including a Sub-Zero refrigerator, Wolf range, pot filler, and apron-front farmhouse sink, complete the chef-ready design.

Manufacturer: Starmark Style: Stratford w/ L Edge and Flat Slab Drawer Headers Finish: Cherry in Mocha Countertop: Select Surfaces Unlimited Quartz in “Carrara” Sinks: IPT Stainless Steel Under-mount; American Standard Studio Under-mount in White Faucets: Customer’s Own Backsplash Tile: Genesee Tile – 5” x 7” Cento per Cento ceramic tile in “Taupe” with random Cento per Cento Deco tiles Designer: Devon MOore Contractor/Installer: Jim Schwesig Tile Installer: Sterling Tile (Mike Shumard) Paint: Mike Yeip Flooring: J. Rohr

This modern transitional kitchen in Arbor Heights, Seattle, combines timeless aesthetic with practical design. Navy blue shaker cabinets contrast beautifully with white quartz countertops, while a bold Moroccan star and cross tile backsplash adds personality. A large kitchen island with open shelving provides storage and prep space, perfect for cooking and entertaining. Skylights, hardwood floors, and stainless steel appliances complete this light-filled, functional layout, ideal for family living.