5 Architectural Mistakes to Avoid When Building in the Pacific Northwest (and What to Do Instead)
The Pacific Northwest (PNW) is known for its misty forests, dramatic coastlines, and unique weather patterns. It’s a dream backdrop for homeowners who value a connection to nature and thoughtful, modern design. But building here requires a special kind of architectural expertise. Without careful planning, even a beautiful home can struggle against the elements or miss out on the natural beauty the region offers.
As experienced home architects in Seattle and Bainbridge Island, the team at Coates Design has seen firsthand what works — and what doesn’t. Here are five of the most common mistakes we see homeowners and builders make in PNW architecture, and how to avoid them.
1️⃣ Ignoring the Impact of Heavy Rain and Moisture
Mistake:
Designing homes without properly accounting for Seattle’s famous rain is a recipe for rot, mold, and long-term maintenance headaches.
The Fix:
Smart PNW architecture starts with water management. That means:
- Deep roof overhangs to protect siding and windows
- Proper site drainage including swales, French drains, and permeable paving
- Rain screen construction systems to keep walls dry
- Water-resistant materials like cedar, metal, and stone that age gracefully in damp conditions
At Coates Design, we carefully plan for the climate so your home performs beautifully in both stormy winters and crisp, dry summers.
2️⃣ Underestimating the Importance of Natural Light
Mistake:
In a region known for its cloudy skies, failing to optimize for natural light can leave homes feeling dark and dreary.
The Fix:
PNW homes should be designed to capture every available ray of daylight. Techniques include:
- Clerestory and skylight installations to brighten interior spaces
- South-facing glazing to harness soft sunlight
- Open floor plans and light-toned interiors to reflect and distribute light
- Minimal window treatments or using translucent shades for privacy without blocking brightness
Our designs always prioritize natural light, because a well-lit home is a happier, healthier one.
3️⃣ Overlooking Sustainable Design Opportunities
Mistake:
With its eco-conscious culture, Seattle architecture demands sustainability — yet many projects miss easy opportunities to build greener.
The Fix:
There are numerous ways to make a home more environmentally responsible without sacrificing style or comfort:
- Use locally-sourced and reclaimed materials
- Incorporate passive solar strategies
- Install high-efficiency heating and cooling systems
- Opt for green roofs or rain gardens for stormwater management
- Choose low-VOC finishes for better indoor air quality
At Coates Design, sustainability is at the core of every project. We believe beautiful homes should be good for the planet, too.
4️⃣ Ignoring Site-Specific Opportunities
Mistake:
Applying a generic, cookie-cutter floor plan or design without considering the site’s unique characteristics.
The Fix:
In the PNW, every property offers something special — a distant mountain view, a cluster of old-growth trees, or coastal exposure. Good architecture responds to those opportunities:
- Positioning rooms to capture sunrise, sunset, or water views
- Preserving significant trees and integrating them into the landscape design
- Designing homes to follow natural topography instead of flattening land
- Orienting living spaces to take advantage of natural ventilation
Our custom home designs are shaped by their environment — making every home feel personal, purposeful, and truly at home in its setting.
5️⃣ Overcomplicating Indoor-Outdoor Living Spaces
Mistake:
Creating outdoor spaces that only work in perfect weather or neglecting to integrate them seamlessly with interior living areas.
The Fix:
The beauty of the Pacific Northwest lies in its changing seasons, and homes should be designed to connect with nature year-round:
- Include covered decks and patios for rainy-day use
- Install outdoor heaters, fire pits, and weather-resistant furniture
- Use large glass walls or retractable doors to blur the lines between indoors and out
- Choose native, low-maintenance landscaping to reduce upkeep and water use
At Coates Design, indoor-outdoor harmony is a signature of our work — because nature should be enjoyed from every room, in every season.
Final Thoughts: Thoughtful Design Is Essential in the PNW
Building in the Pacific Northwest is about more than aesthetics. It’s about creating homes that are durable, efficient, light-filled, and deeply connected to their environment. By avoiding these five common architectural mistakes and embracing smart, site-specific, and sustainable design practices, homeowners can ensure their residence is both timeless and resilient.
As trusted home architects in Seattle, Coates Design specializes in bringing this philosophy to life. Whether you’re dreaming of a modern waterfront retreat or a sustainable urban escape, our team will guide you every step of the way.
Inspired to build your forever home in the Pacific Northwest?
Connect with Coates Design to schedule a consultation and let’s design something extraordinary — together.