Capitol Hill Loft

When the owner of Modernous purchased a pied-à-terre in Seattle, she was immediately drawn to this authentic loft building for its industrial character, rich history, and vibrant location. The loft itself, however, was ready for a refresh—the interiors hadn’t been updated since the 1914 building was converted into residential lofts in 1989. With only 750 square feet to work with, maximizing storage and functionality was a top priority. And, as with any project of our own, we couldn’t resist the opportunity to experiment a little.

Working with a modest remodeling budget, we focused on updates that would have the biggest impact. Fresh paint, refinished floors, and a completely new, highly functional kitchen transformed the main living spaces. In the bathroom, we kept the existing layout and tiling intact, while adding a glass shower enclosure and updating the vanity, hardware, lighting, and toilet. The bedroom gained much-needed storage, and every light fixture throughout the loft was replaced. The remainder of the budget went toward furnishing the space, creating a comfortable, stylish retreat that feels equally suited for relaxing, entertaining, or simply enjoying city life.

With the owner as the client—and plenty of creative input from the broader Modernous team—we took the design in a slightly unexpected direction, embracing a glam minimal-maximal aesthetic. The architectural bones of the loft, along with the kitchen and bath, maintain the clean simplicity inspired by the building’s industrial roots. The furnishings and décor, however, tell a more playful story. Bright artwork, stacks of books, and collected objects add personality and warmth throughout the living space.

Photography By Matthew Gallant