Where Glass Walls Disappear: Olson Kundig’s Pattern House

On the edge of Lake Washington, Olson Kundig’s Pattern House stands out with its dark industrial aesthetic and glass-forward design. The two-story residence makes the most of a narrow site, with its full-height glazed facade framing panoramic views across the lake. 

Retreat Design Lake Washington Pattern House by Olson Kundig open shelves

Retreat Design Lake Washington Pattern House by Olson Kundig open shelves

Retreat Design Lake Washington Pattern House by Olson Kundig open shelves

The telescoping and pivot glass doors are engineered to fully open, dissolving the line between interior living and the waterfront.

Retreat Design Lake Washington Pattern House by Olson Kundig open shelves

Retreat Design Lake Washington Pattern House by Olson Kundig open shelves

Retreat Design Lake Washington Pattern House by Olson Kundig open shelves

Retreat Design Lake Washington Pattern House by Olson Kundig open shelves

Bathrooms clad in dramatic stone slabs heighten the sense of material richness, pairing bold textures with clean-lined fixtures and freestanding forms like the sculptural tub.

Retreat Design Lake Washington Pattern House by Olson Kundig open shelves

Retreat Design Lake Washington Pattern House by Olson Kundig open shelves

Retreat Design Lake Washington Pattern House by Olson Kundig open shelves

Retreat Design Lake Washington Pattern House by Olson Kundig open shelves

The centerpiece is a sculptural folded-steel staircase with integrated leather details. It doubles as a striking architectural feature and a functional core that organizes the house vertically. 

Retreat Design Lake Washington Pattern House by Olson Kundig open shelves

Pattern House is defined by contrasts: heavy steel against warm wood, stone slabs against expansive glazing, intimate interiors against open lake views. 

Photography by Aaron Leitz.