Panoramic views of Seattle's harbour are afforded from the overhanging rear of this house, completed by American firm Robert Hutchison Architecture.

The two-storey Cantilever House is located on a lot that the clients have lived on for 15 years, originally in a small bungalow.

Apart from its convenient location to the University of Seattle and downtown, the owners particularly enjoy the site's waterfront views – so the house was designed to make the most of this.

From the street, the building has few openings save two small, narrow windows and a garage door. However, glazing runs along the entire right side, facing the water.

Upon entering, stairs lead up to the main floor that has expansive views of Portage Bay, with its floating houses and sailboats.

"The owners desired a home that was open, light-filled and private but also transparent and oriented towards the water and city views," said architect Robert Hutchison.

"The building turns its back to the street while opening up to the views to the northeast through a large glazed corner window system."

The house is situated on a slope, with a suite for a mother-in-law tucked underneath the main home. Poured concrete forms the base of the building, as well as a walled enclosure, and steps leading up to the front door.

Otherwise, the exterior walls are clad in black-stained western red cedar, which is native to western North America.

Robert Hutchison Architecture collaborated with Seattle-based Carla Allbee of Allbee Romein for the interior design.

Minimalist cabinets line the walls, from the foyer and kitchen to the bedrooms and bathrooms, adding storage without visually altering the interior. The majority of the flooring is light-coloured wood, with large black tiles found in the entryway and galley kitchen.

A large wooden dining table forms the centrepiece of the open-plan main floor, which also features a fireplace, a seating area, and a row of bookshelves along the staircase railing. The kitchen joins the space with light cabinetry and countertops.

Towards the front of the home, off the kitchen and dining area, is an office, powder room, and master bedroom with walk-in closet and en-suite.

An exterior stair from the living room leads down to a small back patio at grade level, with lounge chairs and a custom-made concrete structure that houses a grill. Off the mother-in-law's suite below is a separate patio, partially covered by the cantilever above.

Photography is by Mark Woods Photography.