Trace & Lisa’s Eclectic Living on Capitol Hill

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Name: Trace and Lisa
Location: Capitol Hill — Seattle, Washington
Years lived in: 2.5 — rented
You may remember a few of the snapshots from Trace and Lisa’s lovely apartment but it’s now time to do a full “House Tour.” Yes I did indeed misquote because the residence is not at all a house. The 800 square foot dwelling is decorated to the last inch of space, showcasing the couple’s eclectic style.
I always feel like a kid in a candy shop every time I visit the Lewis household. It’s hard to decide where to look first. I find myself standing in the corner and staring at the frames on the wall. Lisa pulls me back to reality for a moment. Then my attention drifts off yet again to the grouping of colorful pots above the office desk, or the amazing Life Magazine collection she snagged at an estate sale.
My favorite question to ask as I wander though the space is “Where did you get that?” The answer runs the gamut from their grandmother’s basement to IKEA. Every item has a story and a history. If it’s from Target it is spray painted in a vibrant color or sanded down to create a unique aesthetic. If it’s from a garage sale it is polished and shined to class it up.
Before you ask to see more of the house, let me just tell you up front I took pictures of it all! The apartment consists of an open living room, one bedroom, tiny kitchen and bath. This abode is on the smaller side but never lacking in design. So how does this couple that loves collecting deal with the lack of space ? The answer is a huge storage unit. I bet it’s just bursting with intriguing objects and amazing oddities!
Apartment Therapy Survey:
Our Style: Mid century modern, bohemian, color, pattern, industrial materials, things with a story!!
Inspiration: Anthropologie, Great Jones Home, Room Service Home, Madeleine Weinrib, Jonathan Adler, Kelly Wearstler
Favorite Element: I love the antique doorknobs, the imperfect hardwoods, and little hallways with special arches.
Biggest Embarrassment: It’s never totally clean. Whenever people come over, there’s always that last minute stash of clothes or projects. What’s the saying,” A well kept house is a sign of a misspent life” I hope that’s true.
Proudest DIY: The entry. The paint does a lot for drama, but it’s always something people remember when they come to my house. I like that the pictures that are collected over time too.
Biggest Indulgence: Just one? I think it’s maybe pottery and vases? Although I’ve started to love gathering plants, books, art.
Best Advice: I heard someone say that you should just buy things you love when you find them. You can always find a home for them later and then you’re sure to always be surrounded by things you love.
Resources of Note:
PAINT & COLORS
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• Glidden: High Gloss Black (Entry)
• Glidden: Almond (Walls)
• Ralph Lauren: White (Ceiling)
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ENTRY
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• Mirror: Anthropologie
• Rug: West Elm
• Frames: Thrifting and Target
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LIVING ROOM
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• Sofa: Ikea
• Rug: West Elm
• Pillows: Anthropologie and the Dotted one is Target
• Large Lamp: Vintage
• Coffee Tables: West Elm
•
KITCHEN
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• Dinning Table: Railroad ties made by dad
• Dial Phone: Urban Outfitters
• Shelving Unit: Ikea
•
BEDROOM
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• Lamps: vintage find
• Bedding: Fred Shand for Anthropologie
• Pillows: Fabracadabra
• Day Bed: Vintage
• Rug: West Elm
• Lamps: Vintage
•
BATHROOM
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• Side Table: From mom and dad
•
Thanks, Trace and Lisa!
Images: Katy Nida
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