Bjarko|Serra Architects

In 2013 we bought an old mid-century one-story house near downtown Seattle with a very odd floor plan. We interviewed several architects over the course of a few months, and quickly discovered that Chris Serra was the best fit for our major remodel (pretty close to new construction). The project consisted of demolishing the first floor, preserving the basement, and building a new 2-story contemporary house on the existing foundation. Both he and Valerie have a wonderful design sense, and great vision that they can articulate to 2 non-construction types like myself and my wife. Within 9 months of our first meeting we had permits submitted to the city, which were approved within 3-4 weeks. They held our hand then through the construction phase, always quick to answer emails/calls, and communicated very well with our general contractor when questions/concerns came up. We constantly leaned on their immense experience all along the way. Chris's attention to detail cannot be overstated - nothing was missed. We now live in our dream house in Seattle, and are so thankful that we came across the Bjarko/Serra team!!

The 2200 beach front house that resulted from Chris's vision and plans is magnificent. Everyone who stays at the house affirms the beauty, functionality and warmth of the design. It has weathered well in a very tough salt water beach environment. It feels like a much larger house because of the views, the alignments, the openness to the deck, and the arrangement of the rooms. Chris was very knowledgeable in all aspects of the building, from materials, to lighting, to cabinets, to chemical surfaces, to windows, to the ways of contractors. And the whole team was a pleasure to work with.

An architect firm dedicated to sustainability, Bjarko|Serra have been consistently delivering thoughtful and intriguing design for over 20 years. We are honored to have participated in their highly publicized "Hat Island Residence", and proud to see their work displayed among the finer Pacific NW projects.

Chris Serra demonstrated an amazing ability to understand our wishes. He has a great eye for aesthetics and understands the importance of proper positioning of the house. Every window in the house has a unique but equally interesting view on the surrounding nature. The house that Chris designed for us ended up being everything we wanted and much more. He incorporated some wonderful and smart details which gives the house some unique distinction. We have thoroughly enjoyed living here. The fact that Chris is a super nice guy, is an added bonus.