Since putting in some elbow grease at the SPD cabinet shop weā€™ve been thoroughly reminded of the importance of craftsmanship and the quality of the handmade object.Ā  While key elements of cabinet construction (or house construction for that matter) can be automated, there are important aspects to a finished product that simply need a discerning eye and the human touch.

SPD and BUILD LLC have been working with home owner and architect Mike Mackie, and his wife Jill, on a recent project that makes for a nice example. The project was substantially completed last week and we think youā€™ll be interested in some finished shots and data. The existing home is an excellent case study in mid-century modern design; exposed roof beams and decking at the ceiling, walls of glazing at the perimeter, and over-sized doors that open up the indoors to the outdoors. Basically, the type of existing architecture we love working with.

In order to respect the original architecture, the cabinet package shouldnā€™t get in the way or detract from the crisp, open interiors.Ā  Cabinet geometries are kept low to allow the long horizontal window bands to continue opening up to the view of Magnolia and downtown Seattle beyond.

Custom cabinet boxes allow the composition to step down in conjunction with the sloping roof geometry, thereby maximizing storage space and respecting the homes structure. The Chroma countertops are located intentionally to existing sill heights and the open nature of the home is maintained with a ā€œfloatingā€ countertop at the island.

The material package is kept simple and straight-forward. Quarter-sawn white oak was clear-finished to retain a regularity of texture and an honesty of material. A 3/16ā€ edge-banding adds durability to the door and drawer faces in addition to bringing a crafted feel to the interface. The pulls are custom designed by SPD and fabricated by Metal Masters, the drawer slides are stainless steel Blum motion and a blind corner swing-out system by Fulterer was used at the cabinet corner base.

Subtle details like the plug strip between the window sill and countertop make for a highly functional kitchen. Design cues are also taken from the existing structure including the placement of lighting and cabinet break lines. At the living room, a full height cabinet locks into the window geometry and compliments the existing stone fireplace.


[All photos by BUILD LLC]