Palaver Home
Palaver is more than a name; it’s a promise.
The word drifts across continents and centuries, rooted in the Portuguese palavra—meaning “word” or “speech.” Over time, it has come to embody the art of conversation: the kind that lingers on porches at dusk, that weaves families together, that turns a house into a home. In the American South, palaver is a cherished ritual—stories shared, laughter rising, the gentle music of voices gathering at the end of the day.
It’s this spirit that inspired the transformation of this Vashon Island retreat. Our clients, newly arrived from Georgia, brought with them a legacy of welcome and warmth—a longing for spaces that invite connection and celebrate togetherness. Through thoughtful design, we opened the heart of the house, letting light and conversation flow from room to room. Art became a compass, guiding color and texture, while every detail—down to the kitchen island that invites lingering—was shaped with hospitality in mind. Here, the Pacific Northwest’s quiet beauty meets the Southern tradition of open doors and open hearts.
The story began with a simple act of intention: designing a custom cushion for the homeowners’ built-in bench—a quiet invitation to pause, gather, and connect. Alongside this, the selection of art became a guiding force, and it was the work of renowned artist Pascal Pierme that truly set the tone. Known for his ability to blend organic forms with modern minimalism, Pierme’s pieces bring a sense of movement, depth, and serenity to the home. His art became more than decoration; it was a muse, inspiring the palette and textures that ripple throughout each space. The blues and natural hues found in his work echo the Pacific Northwest landscape and the subtle vibrancy of local birds, weaving together comfort, creativity, and a spirit of togetherness. In Palaver, every gathering is grounded by these beginnings—a bench to welcome you, and art that invites you to linger and reflect.
Level 2
Sloping the roof down from south to north not only provides ample daylight through clerestory windows along the south wall but allowed for two bedrooms with a shared bath as well as a generous office / library.
Level 1
Tucking the master suite into the hillside on the ground floor provides privacy while allowing the suite to exist on the main level - something this client was interested in. A connection to the exterior is provided to the bedroom via an adjacent lightwell which also allows daylight into the stair and circulation space.
More public spaces - including the main entry - enjoy grand views of Puget Sound through double-height glazing.
