Nestled atop the picturesque Yeomalt Bluff, the Ellis Residence boasts an awe-inspiring panorama that stretches across 180 degrees, offering captivating vistas of the mesmerizing Puget Sound and the iconic Seattle skyline. With sustainability as their foremost requirement, the visionary owners commissioned Coates Design Architects to craft a masterpiece that would not only be environmentally responsible but also push the boundaries of modern aesthetics. Achieving LEED Platinum certification, a feat unprecedented outside the city of Seattle, the residence stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of sustainability and contemporary design.

Rooted in the breathtaking surroundings of Bainbridge Island, Washington, the owners embarked on a mission that carried a dual purpose. First, they sought to showcase that sustainable living need not sacrifice the allure of a modern, stylish abode. The Ellis Residence stands as an embodiment of this philosophy, exemplifying how environmental consciousness and cutting-edge design can elegantly intertwine. Second, the owners aspired to inspire others to follow in their footsteps, spreading the message that responsible living is both attainable and essential for safeguarding our planet’s future. Through their commitment to sustainable living, the Ellis Residence has become a beacon of inspiration, igniting a passion for eco-consciousness that reverberates beyond its walls.

The design limits its impact on the environment with a multitude of sustainable practices. Through implementation of geothermal, photovoltaic, solar hot water, and advanced heat-recovery technologies this 2,500 home has succeeded in reducing the energy consumption by more than 70% compared to a typical home construction. The home also makes use of rain water cisterns for irrigation of native landscaping and a vegetated roof. The project’s ecologically small footprint was not just constrained to the construction of the new house. Rather than demolishing the existing structure on the site, the team deconstructed, it effectively diverting 98% of its material from the landfill.

This sustainable home features intimate multi-use spaces that frame exceptional views of Seattle across Puget Sound. The view is best seen from the dining/living room’s large expanse of glass windows and doors that open out to a concrete patio. Another great location to capture the vistas beyond is the sunken concrete tub in the master bath and on the accessible vegetated roof. The anticipation of the owners, Ed and Joanne’s unique goal encompassed a 3 year process. This is a small price to pay when your home is a model of sustainability. Ed states it best when he describes the first morning in their home. “When I saw the sunrise with the skyline of Seattle as a backdrop the whole process was all worth it…

There are sliding and bi-folding doors that transform smaller rooms into larger gathering spaces that can be easily connected to the outdoors. “Every room in this sustainable home serves at least two functions, and usually four or five,” states the architect.

The home’s roof became a vegetated garden patio providing a place to relax – and greater insulation.

The high-efficiency Profile Smart 305 dual-flush toilet features an integral sink and faucet for water and space savings. The toilet offers 1.28-gpf (solid waste) or 0.8-gpf (liquid waste) options, making it up to 56% more water-efficient than single-flush, 1.28 gpf toilets. After flushing, fresh cold water is directed through the faucet for hand washing and drains into the toilet tank for the next flush.

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