Hi everyone. We bought a 1970s split-level in Bellevue two years ago and the layout is fighting us daily. Kitchen is closed off from everything, the living room gets no natural light, and there are three different flooring materials meeting at odd angles. Individually none of it is broken, it just doesn't work as a house, and that makes it hard to describe to a contractor. I'm not sure whether we're describing a remodel or a very expensive redecoration. How do people approach something this diffuse?

What you're describing is a whole-home remodel rather than a series of room projects, and the distinction matters because layout problems can't be solved room by room. Splits from that era respond well to opening the main level and pulling light through, and since you're touching everything anyway it's the moment to upgrade insulation, windows and HVAC while walls are open. That's the part people skip and regret. Bellevue Home Remodeling is the relevant service at New Day Construction - they've done a number of 1970s splits on the Eastside. Ask specifically for a phasing plan so you're not living in a construction zone for eight months straight.