Project: In-Kind House
Architecture: GO’C
Team: Jon Gentry, Aimée O’Carroll, Ashley Skidmore
Contractor: Treebird Construction
Structural and Civil Engineering: J Welch Engineering
Location: Seattle, Washington, United States
Area: 1900 ft2
Year: 2024
Photo Credits: Kevin Scott
The In‑Kind House by GO’C transforms a modest 1950s foundation into a bright, nature‑connected retreat without increasing its footprint. Rather than adding square footage, the design delivers “just enough” space to meet the client’s needs—no more, no less—while repairing a poorly laid‑out original home.
Reimagining Existing Space
From the first site visit, it was clear that the old floor plan hampered daily life. A misplaced staircase and dark basement left the home feeling cramped. By repositioning the staircase and carving out an open, double‑height entry, the architects brought daylight down into the lower level. A large west‑facing window was recreated to frame a mature maple tree, flooding the foyer and basement with natural light and banishing the “basement phobia.”
Seamless Indoor‑Outdoor Connection
At just 1,900 square feet, the house maximizes its narrow footprint with a high shed roof, exposed wood beams, and clerestory windows that make each room feel expansive. South‑facing lift‑and‑slide doors dissolve the boundary between living space and deck. Beyond lies a layered garden of moss‑covered rockery, ferns, and native trees that rise gently toward the north‑west slope. This design creates a seamless flow from interior to exterior and makes the small home feel welcoming and open.
Thoughtful Material Palette
A restrained palette of natural materials unifies the home. White‑oak cabinetry, plaster walls, and hardwood floors flow continuously between levels. In social areas, deep blue‑stained oak cabinetry introduces warmth and character without overwhelming simplicity. A Japanese‑style recessed entry—with built‑in wood bench and storage—provides a welcoming pause before entering the main living area. A white‑oak screen filters light between the entry, stair, and living room, adding texture while preserving openness.
Sustainable, Human‑Centered Design
By building atop the existing concrete stem walls, the project minimizes waste and preserves embodied carbon. Passive design strategies—including optimized daylighting, natural cross‑ventilation, and generous overhangs—reduce reliance on mechanical systems. Native plantings throughout the front yard and rear garden support local biodiversity and manage stormwater. As a result, the In‑Kind House demonstrates that small, carefully considered interventions can deliver lasting comfort, efficiency, and connection to nature.
A Modest Footprint, Bold Impact
Ultimately, the In‑Kind House exemplifies how architecture can amplify what already exists. By honoring the site’s history and focusing on spatial clarity, material honesty, and seamless indoor‑outdoor living, GO’C created a home that feels far larger than its modest size. It stands as a testament to the power of simplicity—and the profound impact of designing “just enough” for everyday life.
