First Lamp

Currently in design — a multigenerational family cabin set within the remote landscape of Davis Island, Mississippi.

Elevated on stilts in response to seasonal flooding, the home is designed to sit lightly on the land while creating a strong connection to the surrounding landscape. Durable materials and a resilient building approach respond to the harsh elements, while generous openings, shaded outdoor spaces, and framed views keep nature at the center of the experience.

A place designed for multiple generations to gather, retreat, and build memories over time.

Rainy days in Hood River.

There’s something about seeing a home at this stage—structure exposed, materials taking shape, and the architecture beginning to settle into its landscape. Even under gray skies, the relationship between the house and the rugged Oregon setting is starting to come through.

Looking forward to watching this one continue to take shape.

ArchitectureInProgress PacificNorthwestArchitecture PNWDesign

Meet Maria, one of the talented architects behind First Lamp.
 
Originally from Spain, Maria brings a European perspective to her work—grounded in functionalism, thoughtful detailing, and the belief that good architecture should endure for generations. She is passionate about high-performance design and creating homes that are not only sustainable, but healthier, more comfortable, and deeply connected to the people who live in them.
 
Maria earned her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Architecture in Madrid and is a LEED AP BD+C with more than eight years of residential design experience.
Outside the studio, you’ll find her exploring the PNW with her husband—biking, paddling, camping—or cooking and gathering around the table with friends and family.
We’re lucky to have her as part of First Lamp.
 
SustainableDesign HighPerformanceHomes

At the heart of this Mercer Island Mid-Century remodel is an expansive library and music room—a space designed around books, music, and the rituals of everyday life.

A sweeping curved wall defines the room, its geometry inspired by the form of the grand piano it embraces. The curve softens the home’s Mid-Century lines while creating a natural focal point and a sense of movement through the space. Floor-to-ceiling bookshelves transform the room into a true library, while the openness and scale allow it to function equally as a place for music, gathering, and quiet retreat.

Throughout the home, we looked for opportunities like this—where architecture could respond directly to the people, objects, and passions that give a home its character.

Architecture: First Lamp Architects
Builder: Island Crest Builders
Photographer: Tim Bies Photography
Siding: Nakamoto Forestry

HomeLibrary ResidentialArchitecture InteriorArchitecture SeattleArchitect PacificNorthwestArchitecture CustomHome ArchitecturalDetails ModernRemodel

Recently completed Mid-Century home on Mercer Island. This design stitches together an exiting home with the garage creating a new living space, library and Music space.

The exterior is wrapped in authentic Yakisugi siding from Nakamoto Forestry. Lended with a natural stone. The rich texture and natural character of the charred wood complement the home’s clean lines, creating a timeless material palette that will evolve gracefully over time.

Architecture: First Lamp Architects
Builder: Island Crest Builders
Yakisugi: Nakamoto Forestry
Photography:Tim Bies Photography

NakamotoForestry

A reimagining of a Mid-Century home on Mercer Island—honoring the clarity of the original architecture while creating new living space for a young family.

The exterior is wrapped in authentic Yakisugi siding from Nakamoto Forestry, whose centuries-old charring technique creates a finish of remarkable depth, durability, and quiet beauty. The rich texture and natural character of the charred wood complement the home’s clean lines, creating a timeless material palette that will evolve gracefully over time.

Architecture: First Lamp Architects
Builder: Island Crest Builders
Yakisugi: Nakamoto Forestry
Photography:Tim Bies Photography

NakamotoForestry

Set along the shores of Lake Washington, this residence is shaped by light, water, and the quiet rhythm of the Pacific Northwest. Carefully framed views, skylight set over an interior floating staircase, warm natural materials, and a restrained architectural language create timeless spaces.
CustomHome ResidentialArchitecture PacificNorthwest ModernCraftsmanship TimelessDesign

Interior images of our recently completed waterfront home on Lake Washington in Seattle. CustomHome ResidentialArchitecture PacificNorthwestDesign LuxuryHomes ModernArchitecture

Under construction in Seattle’s Madrona neighborhood: an existing home being reimagined to Passive House standards. Three inches of wood fiber insulation now enclose the exterior, creating a high-performance envelope designed for comfort, durability, and efficiency.
Excited to see how this home performs in the years ahead.

Completed in 2022, this custom waterfront residence on Lake Washington resides in Seattle’s Leschi neighborhood designed for a passionate music enthusiast and collector. The design celebrates connection to the water while reflecting the unique interests and lifestyle of its owners.

CustomHome ResidentialArchitecture PacificNorthwestDesign LuxuryHomes ModernArchitecture