Suzanne Zahr Chair of MI Design Commission

February 3, 2023

During her second term, on November 2, 2022, Suzanne Zahr was voted in as Chair of the seven Design Commissioners for Mercer Island. As an architect with civil engineering background, Suzanne fills one of the seats as a professional member. She has established a Design/Build firm on Mercer Island, bringing over 25 years of experience that includes time with NBBJ, Olson Kundig, Starbucks, and Amazon (as an IA consultant). She is excited to continue providing her expertise in design and architecture through this volunteer position.

Established in 1972, the Design Commission board is a group of volunteers who each serve for four years. Each commissioner is confirmed by the majority vote of the City Council. The Design Commissioners serve as an advisory board to City Council, providing expert advice on design matters related to the City’s commercial buildings in the Mercer Island Town Center.

WOMEN : Then & Now by Monir & Mehdi Ghanbeigy

December 8, 2022

SZ’s WOMEN : Then & Now exhibit tells culturally rich stories of Persian culture through contemporary and classically-influenced pieces. Monir & Mehdi Ghanbeigy from Iran have created multimedia artwork together since 1970, combining Mehdi’s detailed work with Persian miniatures and painting, Monir’s background in ceramics and pottery, and their mutual love and appreciation for the history of Persian art.

Join us on Thursday, December 15, 2022, for another memorable & culturally enriching evening at the SZ Gallery!

SZ Build Series - Episode 3: Slab on Grade

September 18, 2022

As a Design | Build team, SZ Build offers the unique advantage of leading projects from inception to completion. We thought it would be fun to share in this gratifying process, as we launch our SZ Build Video Series. Through these construction vignettes, we’ll give you a sneak peak into the sequencing and technical prowess of our rockstar subcontractors, as our designs come to life!

Our third episode features the work happening below and within the concrete slab on grade of a new Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit (DADU) on Mercer Island. You’ll see our hydronic heating team weave pex tubing within the floor, allowing for an even distribution of comfort and warmth throughout. We build for the beauty, durability and longevity of our homes.

PERCH: Embracing the Woods

September 18, 2022

An untouched 60’s rambler opens up to the sky and tree canopies, embracing the surrounding woods & lake views. Morning light floods in through the remodeled kitchen’s gable-end windows, as the views sweep around the corner. The dining room is perched at a diagonal, opening onto a wrap around deck, evoking treehouse vibes. The transformation of this home inspires a sense of retreat, while allowing for gatherings, big & small.