West Seattle home gets a visit from ‘Ask This Old House’

This article highlights twelve Seattle homes that exemplify a successful blend of midcentury design preservation and modern renovation. These properties demonstrate a nuanced approach to updating historical architecture for contemporary living while honoring their original character. The first featured renovation is a 1957 midcentury home, originally designed by Hawley Adelbert Dudley, that maintained its good bones through a striking makeover. Another project by SHED Architecture & Design focuses on a 1950s midcentury gem, where the goal was to enhance its inherent charm with modern elements rather than a complete overhaul, salvaging original features and updating the layout, finishes, and furnishings. A 1959 Northwest contemporary ranch home in Seattle’s Madison Park underwent a significant transformation, with SHED Architecture & Design peeling back years of random remodels. The renovation skillfully juxtaposes light and dark materials, such as Douglas fir against dark bricks and concrete floor tiling, aligning with the home's original palette while introducing a modern aesthetic. The Lake Forest Park Midcentury Renovation involved a complete re-working of a 1950s Northwest Contemporary house, altering the floor plan to create enlarged spaces for the kitchen, master bedroom, master bath, and study. This renovation also integrated large glass light monitors for natural light and utilized a rich material palette including steel, cherry, natural grass, terrazzo, and Douglas Fir. For a kitchen in Seattle’s Magnolia neighborhood, the renovation prioritized combining midcentury modern style with enhanced functionality. A wall was removed to connect the kitchen and dining area, improving flow and natural light, while ensuring the new design respected the home's 1950s architecture. Another project tackled a 1961 midcentury home by George Lucker in Seattle’s Seward Park, aiming to restore its midcentury character and adapt it for modern life by making minimal yet impactful changes. The article also features a 1958 midcentury property where the owners updated the landscaping, deck, and exterior, including painting the exterior in Tricon Black and installing oversized house numbers. A spectacular Pacific Northwest home, originally built in 1977 and remodeled by Tom Kundig in 2000, connects its spacious interiors with the outdoors through immense pivot doors and floor-to-ceiling windows, incorporating materials like mahogany from Benaroya Hall. An ADA accessible 1954 home in Seattle's Magnolia neighborhood was modified by architect Karen Braitmayer and Carol Sundstrom of Röm Architecture Studio to better accommodate Braitmayer's and her daughter's wheelchair use, focusing on universal access space planning. A midcentury home nestled in a Pacific Northwest forest, designed in 1962 by Ralph D. Anderson, maintained its original character through updates. Elements like a double-height glass wall, sunken living room, circular staircase, and wood paneling were preserved, alongside a renovated kitchen that kept original salvaged teak. The Art Deco Meets Midcentury renovation combined nostalgic 1950s architecture with elegant interiors and Art Deco influences, reconfiguring living spaces and adding bedrooms. Finally, the 'Zema Redux' project on Bainbridge Island revitalized a 1974 house by Gene Zema, known for his blend of modernism and Japanese architecture, which included rebuilding the central living space, reorganizing the kitchen, and adding an outdoor deck after years of decay. #SeattleHomes #MidcenturyModern #HomeRenovation #ArchitectureDesign #InteriorDesign #PacificNorthwest #HistoricalPreservation #ModernUpdates #SustainableDesign

In 2013, Seattle-based photographer Deb Achak and her family acquired a historic property that was previously known as Villa Heidelberg, a bed-and-breakfast for 25 years. Despite initial reservations about purchasing a large, busy, and potentially demanding property, Achak was captivated by the house. She and her husband, Ramin, along with their teenage sons, Henry and Lewis, embarked on a journey to transform the lodging establishment into a functional and comfortable family home, while also preserving its rich history within the community. The initial phase of renovation focused on 'de–bed-and-breakfast-ifying' the layout, which involved creating more open spaces. Numerous doors were removed, including a swinging door separating the kitchen and dining room. Upstairs, the individual guest rooms needed to be reconfigured for family living. Achak humorously recalled receiving a large Ziploc bag filled with keys, as each bedroom originally had its own lock and multiple copies, highlighting the property's former life as a guest house. Two years after the necessary structural renovations, Achak enlisted designer Katie LeClercq to furnish the home from scratch. LeClercq aimed to create a space that was both stylish and resilient, particularly for a family with teenage boys. Durable leather pieces, such as Nickey Kehoe dining chairs and a Jayson Home channel-tufted sofa, were chosen for their ability to withstand daily family life. The design philosophy extended to incorporating personal touches, with Achak's own photographs prominently displayed in the entry hallway and up the staircase, symbolizing her work at the heart of their home. Much of the other artwork featured local Seattle artists and friends, fostering a sense of community within the decor. Window treatments presented a significant design challenge. LeClercq opted for Roman shades to avoid the heavy look of pooling drapery against the home's rich wood box beams. A notable challenge was Lewis's round window, which had previously been covered with a DIY foam core solution to block sunlight. LeClercq provided a more elegant and practical solution with a mini rod and curtain panel. Privacy was a key consideration in the main bathroom, which overlooked a busy street. To address this, mirrors on a sliding track were installed on either side of the vanity window, allowing the family to completely obscure the view when desired, ensuring privacy without sacrificing natural light. Despite the successful transformation, Achak reflected on minor decisions she might have made differently, such as choosing white quartz over natural quartzite counters in the kitchen and opting for non-custom cabinets due to budget constraints. However, she recognized that the house's inherent character, exemplified by charming details like a safe in the mudroom with secret drawers, compensated for these compromises. The project successfully blended the home's historic charm with modern family living, creating a retreat that continues to serve a new purpose. #HomeTour #Renovation #InteriorDesign #FamilyHome #HistoricProperty #SeattleHomes #DesignInspiration #AdaptiveReuse #ResidentialDesign

Brandi and Scott Fuller embarked on a renovation journey for their 1914 Georgian home in Park Hill, Denver, intending to complete a few specific updates. Initially, their plans were modest, focusing on expanding and remodeling the kitchen, which felt too small for their combined family of seven and the 8,000-square-foot house. They also planned to add ensuite bathrooms to two upstairs bedrooms, a walk-in master bedroom closet, and a basement home gym. Despite their experience in the architecture and real estate industries, the Fullers did not anticipate the extensive scope their renovation project would ultimately encompass. What began as a "few things" quickly escalated into a near-complete transformation of their historic residence. The catalyst for this expansion was the discovery of a sagging kitchen floor, a result of a previous shoddy renovation. The architect, Toby Branch of Branch Architecture Studio, explained that addressing this structural issue required significant interventions in the basement, leading to a full structural remodel of the kitchen floor and the basement ceiling below. This, in turn, caused new cracks to appear in the main level's plaster walls, necessitating further repairs. The snowball effect continued throughout the house. The upstairs updates followed a similar pattern; converting two children's bedroom closets into bathrooms required unexpected construction, which then prompted Brandi and Scott to overhaul their master bathroom. While these projects were underway, they also decided to remodel the third-floor bathroom and bedrooms, restore a bedroom suite above the garage, replace most of the home's lead pipes, and install a new HVAC system. Brandi likened the process to getting a new sofa and then realizing the drapes and paint needed updating, illustrating how one improvement led to the desire for others. Outdoors, the initial plans to repair the original red-brick walls, sand, and paint also grew significantly. The architect enclosed the walkway between the garage and the house to create a new mudroom and added a French door and metal staircase connecting the kitchen to the yard. This enhancement transformed the yard into an additional living space, usable for a significant portion of the year. The property's original brick hardscaping now frames new plantings designed by Lifescape Colorado and artificial turf, which the Fullers chose to retain and integrate into the design due to shade and maintenance considerations. Ultimately, the renovations covered 6,000 square feet. Beyond the structural changes, a key challenge was to seamlessly blend the home's preserved original architectural details—such as old windows, millwork, wood-plank floors, marble fireplace surrounds, and even original call boxes—with modern updates. The kitchen served as a prime example of this vintage-meets-modern aesthetic. Mikal Otten, owner and lead designer of Exquisite Kitchen Design, created a "traditional kitchen with soft contemporary touches." This was achieved by incorporating simplified traditional elements, like custom cabinets with a subtle cove profile and a soft white brushstroke finish, and ethereal blue glass backsplash tiles that offer a contemporary nod to classic brick styles. A stainless steel farmhouse sink replaced traditional porcelain, providing a cleaner, edgier look, while a walnut coffee-bar armoire and chevron-patterned white oak flooring reintroduced turn-of-the-century flair, recalling a historical practice of special floor treatments in specific rooms. The floor coverings played a crucial role in anchoring the decor of each room. Brandi explained that they started with the rug in each room and built the design from there. For instance, the dining room's modern floral rug influenced the choice of silk shantung wallcovering, a branch-like brass chandelier, and clear Lucite chairs. In the living room, a neutral rug set the tone for gray crushed-velvet sofas, a marble-topped coffee table, and a ring-shaped crystal chandelier. The foyer featured a custom stair runner with a cherry-blossom pattern, complementing a midcentury-style credenza and bold custom artwork. The furnishings selected by Brandi and Scott represent a diverse mixture of styles, primarily transitional but incorporating midcentury, contemporary, and bohemian pieces, which Brandi noted "came together in the end." Branch attributed the project's success not just to luck, but to the inherent integrity and forgiving nature of century-old homes, which allow for structural repairs and modern updates without losing their original character. The complete transformation ultimately highlighted the enduring strength and beauty of the home's historic foundation. #HomeRenovation #HistoricHome #InteriorDesign #KitchenRemodel #StructuralRenovation #ParkHillDenver #VintageModern #ArchitecturalPreservation

SHED Architecture & Design undertook a comprehensive restoration of a 1959 ranch house in Seattle, aiming to resurrect its original mid-century charm while integrating modern functionality. The property, upon acquisition by the homeowners, had undergone multiple remodels that had largely erased its historical character. SHED's approach involved stripping the house back to its foundational elements to meticulously revitalize its inherent aesthetic. The project, known as the Madison Park Ranch House, focused on creating a cohesive and timeless design. This was achieved through the careful selection of materials that resonate with the era of the home's origin, coupled with a contemporary open-plan layout. The chosen color palette was also instrumental in honoring the house's history, facilitating a seamless blend between its past and future iterations. This thoughtful combination of elements ensures that the renovated home functions efficiently for modern living without sacrificing its historical integrity. Externally, significant changes were made to the backyard. Previously existing structures were removed to clear space for a new landscaped area. This outdoor living space now features a fire pit, providing a focal point for gatherings, and a lower patio designed for relaxation. An elevated deck, accessible via a set of stairs, extends directly from the kitchen, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living. Large sliding glass doors were incorporated to further enhance this connection, allowing for easy access and an abundance of natural light to penetrate the interior. The interior renovation saw the kitchen undergo a substantial transformation. A prominent, generously sized island was installed, serving multiple purposes from food preparation and cooking to dining and socializing. To compensate for any potential lack of natural light, a series of skylights were integrated into the kitchen ceiling, effectively illuminating the space. The flooring throughout much of the interior was updated with expressed aggregate concrete tiles, which were deliberately chosen to match the pavers used in the outdoor areas, thereby promoting a visual continuity between the indoor and outdoor environments. Bathroom renovations prioritized a minimalist design philosophy, which not only modernized their appearance but also significantly improved their functional utility. Each aspect of the renovation, from the removal of old structures to the selection of new materials and the strategic placement of design elements, contributed to the overall goal of transforming the 1959 ranch house into a functional, aesthetically pleasing, and historically respectful contemporary home. The project successfully reinstated the home's original character while adapting it to meet the demands of a modern lifestyle. #Architecture #HomeRestoration #MidCenturyModern #RanchHouse #SeattleDesign #InteriorDesign #LandscapeDesign #ModernLiving

Lauren and Jason Muir embarked on a significant renovation of their 1900-built Parkside home after returning to Adelaide from London and Sydney. The couple purchased the property in its original condition in late 2020, with renovation plans beginning almost immediately. However, due to pandemic-related delays and council approvals, construction didn't commence until two years later. Lauren, a strategy executive at Westpac, expressed the importance of honoring the home's 1900 heritage while integrating a modern aesthetic, a design philosophy inspired by Victorian homes in London's southwest. A key design objective was to create a seamless transition between the original structure and the new extension. This was achieved by extending the original timber floors throughout the house and meticulously matching architectural details like architraves. The couple also focused on cohesive styling, using art to introduce color and enhance flow between the old and new sections of the home. The front of the house retained its original character, while the rear extension was designed to complement it with a contemporary feel. The renovation project involved collaboration with The Building Company and Mavtect Designs, successfully navigating council requirements that mandated the extension not be visible from the street. Specific features desired by the couple included a wine cellar, which Jason envisioned as a space where one could walk down and be enveloped by wine. Lauren's primary desire for the living space was an abundance of natural light. While the front of the house, with its older structure and tree coverage, remained darker, the extension was designed to maximize light, leading to the creation of a seven-meter raked ceiling and a large wall of glass. This architectural choice not only floods the living area with light but also provides a view of the century-old hedge in the backyard, which offers significant privacy and a natural green wall effect. Outdoor spaces were also a crucial component of the renovation. With the help of Husk Projects and Evoke Outdoors for landscaping, Lauren and Jason created dedicated outdoor entertaining areas and a sauna area. The sauna was specifically inspired by Sequoia Lodge, aiming to replicate its serene garden setting where one could relax after using the sauna, creating a retreat-like atmosphere. The Parkside home became a labor of love, offering a convenient urban lifestyle, with easy access to parklands and local amenities. Despite their affection for the renovated Parkside home, the Muir family is now moving to Stirling in pursuit of more space for their young children. Their new 1920s home also requires renovation, signaling Lauren's continued preference for restoring older properties over new builds. The sale of the Parkside property, located at 9 Douglas Street, is being managed by Georgie Todd and Alexandra Green of Harris Real Estate, marking the end of one project and the beginning of another for the family. #HeritageHome #ParksideRenovation #ModernExtension #ArchitecturalDesign #LuxuryLiving #HomeRenovation #AdelaideRealEstate #InteriorDesign #OutdoorLiving

Julia Kramer, a former Bon Appétit editor, and her husband, Zach Kaplan, purchased a Craftsman home in Koreatown, Los Angeles, sight unseen during the early days of the pandemic. The decision was primarily influenced by a stained-glass peacock window in the dining room, which resonated with their family's experience visiting live peacocks at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City. This personal connection served as a significant sign, making the long-distance purchase feel destined. The couple, still residing in their two-bedroom apartment in New York’s Upper West Side, relied on an L.A.-based friend to view the property shortly after it was listed before making an offer. Following the purchase, and with only six weeks until their move, Kramer and Kaplan enlisted the help of Jamie Haller, an experienced Craftsman restorer and shoe designer. Haller's primary task was to modernize certain aspects of the home while also stripping away inappropriate additions, such as built-in speaker systems in the living room and kitchen, and numerous recessed lights. The goal was to preserve the original character and 'good stuff' of the Craftsman style. Kramer, who was largely put off by the ubiquity of newly remodeled kitchens featuring subway tile and open shelves during her house hunt, found the untouched, wood-heavy kitchen of this home particularly appealing. She expressed a preference for living without common countertop materials like marble and granite and appreciated the kitchen's separation from other rooms, allowing her personal space while cooking. Restoration efforts in the kitchen focused on subtle yet crucial updates. Haller oversaw the replacement of awning window chains with historically accurate hardware, a task that required considerable effort to source and install. She emphasized 'restraint' in the renovation process, focusing on making the space functional without sacrificing its original charm. A carpenter was brought in to repair the track of the old-fashioned bread box's garage door, ensuring its safe operation. While the kitchen lacks modern amenities like soft-close hinges, it retains a distinct 'soul' that appealed to the owners. One of the most challenging projects was the living room, where plaster walls had been covered in blue silk dupioni fabric and secured with an estimated 45,000 staples. Removing these staples was a laborious process, taking a week of manual effort. The focal point of the revitalized living room became Kramer’s vintage coffee table, a 1stdibs acquisition, which uniquely functions as a champagne and shrimp cocktail station, with its inverted center perfectly accommodating her ice bucket. Haller also had to source new lighting fixtures, as the previous owners took the originals. She turned to a salvage shop in Los Angeles known for preserving lights from Old Hollywood celebrity homes, finding an antique sconce for the guest bedroom’s salvaged sink that once belonged to Buster Keaton. Distinguishing this Craftsman from others, the home features dark, purple-hued mahogany wood rather than the typical red-orange Douglas fir. This unique wood tone harmonizes surprisingly well with subtle pink accents, such as the original fireplace grout and the new dining room walls, which were painted a soft dusty lavender-gray. Haller noted that the natural light interacting with these elements creates a warm glow. Due to the tight renovation schedule, restoring the painted wood trim was not feasible. Instead, it was repainted in Farrow & Ball’s dark navy shade, Railings, to achieve a cohesive look. In contrast to the home’s more vibrant areas, the main bedroom adopted a softer palette, transforming its previous purple walls into a serene cream. Kramer, typically drawn to maximalist designs, was swayed by Haller’s vision for a neutral, tranquil space. The bedroom renovation included creating two closets on either side of the bed by reallocating space from an adjacent children’s room, and adding a built-in reading nook with a tufted cushion, which serves as Kramer’s preferred work-from-home spot. For the children’s bedrooms, Kramer and Haller exercised a different form of restraint, opting for allover wallpapers with prints that strike a balance between kid-friendly and adult-approved aesthetics. Kramer expressed her desire to postpone 'ugly child spaces,' choosing whimsical crane designs by House of Hackney for her youngest son's room and a floral print by the same brand for the bathroom. She found that the numerous built-ins in the large bathroom helped to break up the busy floral pattern effectively. The various bird motifs throughout the home, from the initial peacock window to the crane wallpaper, have become a personal symbol of good fortune for Kramer. #HomeTour #CraftsmanHome #LosAngelesRealEstate #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #SightUnseenPurchase #HistoricPreservation #VintageDecor #FamilyHome

This article highlights a standalone house at 769 Argyle Road in the West Midwood micro-neighborhood of Flatbush, Brooklyn, currently listed for $1.499 million. The early 20th-century property, described as being in "estate condition," offers a blend of period details and later alterations, presenting an opportunity for a buyer willing to undertake renovation work. The house is situated in an area developed by the Germania Real Estate Improvement Company around the turn of the last century, which transformed former farmland into suburban communities. Historical records indicate that lots on Argyle Road were transferred to the John R. Corbin Co. in 1905, though the exact builder of this particular house remains unclear. The architectural style features Colonial Revival elements on the exterior and Arts and Crafts influences inside. The interior retains many original details, including built-in cabinetry, wood floors with inlaid borders, picture rails, and moldings. However, it also shows signs of alterations from different eras, such as Deco-era bathrooms and a mid-century kitchen. Entry to the house is through a sunroom, notable for its windows with fanlights, visible in a circa 1940 tax photo. French doors lead into a spacious living room, which is distinguished by leaded glass windows flanking a river rock fireplace. Pocket doors connect the living room to an adjoining dining room, which features a painted brick mantel and a built-in cabinet with a leaded glass door. The kitchen, updated in a mid-century style, includes a red linoleum floor, wood cabinets with vintage hardware, laminate counters, and pegboard storage. While functional, it offers ample space for a new owner to modernize, benefiting from two windows and access to both the basement and the rear yard. An adjoining full bath on the ground floor showcases a Deco built-in shower and black and white tiling. The second floor accommodates three bedrooms, each with closets, and another full bathroom. This bathroom stands out with its original pink and burgundy color scheme, complete with an intact sink, tub, sconce, medicine cabinet, and matching accessories and accent tiles, despite some patching of the floor tiles. The third floor provides two additional bedrooms and a bonus room that holds the potential to be converted into another full bathroom. The unfinished basement houses laundry facilities and a toilet room. Externally, the property includes a private driveway leading to a concrete block garage. This garage was present by at least 1913, as evidenced by a resident's registration of a Stearns auto at the address. The rear yard, though largely occupied by the garage, still offers a patch of grass and some shrubbery, indicating potential for landscaping. The property is listed by Rebekah Carver of Douglas Elliman. An open house was scheduled for Saturday, November 19, from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m., indicating a relatively recent listing at the time of the article's publication. The house represents a unique opportunity for buyers seeking a property with historical character and renovation potential in a desirable Brooklyn neighborhood. #Flatbush #HouseOfTheDay #RealEstate #ArgyleRoad #WestMidwood #HistoricHome #BrooklynRealEstate #HomeRenovation

The article showcases a top-floor condominium located within the former West Queen Anne Elementary School in Seattle, a building recognized on the National Register of Historic Places since 1975. This historic school, which closed in 1981, was subsequently converted into 49 residential units in 1984, serving as a significant example of preserving surplus educational buildings. The specific condo featured is on the top floor and includes a sunny deck integrated into the roofline, making it one of 12 such units in the building. It offers a bright and spacious living environment with high ceilings. The interior has been thoroughly updated to reflect contemporary design aesthetics, featuring a galley-style kitchen equipped with high-end appliances, quartz countertops, subway tiles, and European white oak floors. A notable design element in the living room includes wall panels that subtly reference the building's historical character. These panels also cleverly conceal a twin-size Murphy bed and an entertainment center, blending modern functionality with vintage charm. The design philosophy of the condo, as described by listing agent Susan Mudarri, successfully merges the best of both historical preservation and contemporary living. The large, loft-style bedroom is illuminated by a skylight and features modern cable railings and recessed lighting, contributing to a minimalist and airy atmosphere. The unit also includes an en suite bathroom, an additional half-bath downstairs, a stacked washer and dryer, and custom closet cabinetry, ensuring practical needs are met while maintaining a clean aesthetic. The location of the condominium offers convenient access to local amenities in the Queen Anne community, such as Molly Moon’s Homemade Ice Cream and Caffe Fiore, which are situated on the same street. The Queen Anne branch of the Seattle Public Library, also a National Register of Historic Places peer to the school, is just a block away. The neighborhood provides various recreational opportunities including pickleball courts, parks, and pizzerias, fostering a rich urban lifestyle. Historian Larry Kreisman noted that the successful conversion of the West Queen Anne Elementary School into residential units required a unique combination of factors. The community's efforts to save the building from demolition in the 1970s played a crucial role in its preservation and subsequent transformation. This communal spirit is noted to persist, with neighbors actively engaging in mutual support, such as watching packages and welcoming new residents. The article highlights that the building's historical integrity and its modern residential functionality are beautifully maintained. #PropertyWatch #QueenAnne #Condominiums #HistoricPreservation #ArchitecturalConversion #SeattleRealEstate #UrbanLiving #HomeDesign

This article explores an abandoned circus-themed house nestled in New York's Catskill Mountains, captured through the lens of urban explorer and photographer Bryan Sansivero. The Jacobean Revival mansion, constructed in 1925, was left vacant by its Italian-American owners for unknown reasons. Despite several attempts to sell it, the property was mysteriously delisted in 2018. The exterior of the house reveals a landscape reclaimed by nature, with unkempt grounds and overgrown lawns contributing to a sense of foreboding. Inside, a canary-yellow entrance hall, despite peeling wallpaper, retains original features like hardwood floors and an elegant wrought iron banister. An open door leads to a cellar, hinting at unknown depths beneath the house. The parlor, also in Day-Glo canary yellow, features a grand carved fireplace, but its worn and buckling floorboards suggest damp issues. An ornate cast-iron grate in the hearth indicates the reliance on open fires during cold upstate New York winters. A dilapidated salmon-pink room, bathed in sunlight, holds an unsettling ambiance, with an open umbrella on the dusty floor, considered a bad omen by the superstitious. Heading upstairs, yellow wallpaper clings to the stairwell, alongside recessed alcoves and red crosses, potentially decorator marks or more ominous symbols. The bedrooms on the upper floor embrace a vibrant, kaleidoscope of primary colors, reflecting the home's circus theme. One child's room or playroom strongly resembles a big top, with yellow and purple harlequin borders and croquet mallets and balls scattered as if by a poltergeist. The big top tent design on the ceiling, originally in dramatic yellow and red, is now in significant disrepair. Another adjacent bedroom features a loud color scheme of tonal oranges, moss-green, and a sky-blue ceiling. The master bedroom, once grand, is decorated in powder blue with a royal blue border and a Regency-style fireplace. A French door from this room opens onto a terrace with an intact roof and decent brickwork, suggesting renovation potential. The small bathroom continues the circus theme with bold red and white striped wallpaper, creating a spooky atmosphere, though the washbasin remains intact. A second staircase leading to the top floor has a curious rope handrail and scattered croquet balls. The vast yellow bedroom on the top floor features worn carpet and striped curtains, with a crumbling ceiling. A bizarre discovery is a painting of a bullfighter by Spanish artist Antonio Casero Sanz in a closet. Keys for the property's numerous outbuildings are found on a windowsill, prompting questions about the owners' sudden departure. The sprawling estate includes at least five other buildings, some residential, others commercial in their prime. A rundown stone and wood cottage, though overgrown, appears ripe for renovation. Inside the cottage, a fading fresco of a fantastical landscape covers an entire wall, possibly restorable. A blackened fireplace, solid oak paneling, and grand built-in cupboards furnish the room, where an antique backgammon set sits on the floor, implying unfinished business. Overgrown vines outside hint at the property's past as a winery, a common industry in the region. The barn on the property was used for wine processing and storage, containing a tapped cask, demijohns, and even a demijohn with wine. Labels with a red stag and 'Deerhaunt Wine' suggest a small-scale family operation. Additionally, an abandoned child's treehouse with a slide and rickety swings adds to the eerie atmosphere, evoking a sense of lingering ghosts from the estate's heyday. The property, steeped in mystery, holds many unanswered questions regarding its abandonment. Once a playful space, it has transformed into a derelict, haunting shadow of its former self. #AbandonedHouse #UrbanExploration #CatskillMountains #CircusTheme #JacobeanRevival #HauntedProperty #ArchitecturalHistory #RenovationPotential #Mystery

The author recounts the experience of moving into a century-old house in Newton, built in 1900, with a blended family. Upon exploring the dark basement days after moving in, a large metal container was discovered. Initially mistaken for an old boiler, it was found to contain two oversized, bound volumes once the lid was pried open. These volumes were not the hoped-for Timothy Leary journals, but rather ledger pages detailing a decade of financial records from St. Gregory The Theologian Seminary, which had occupied the house from 1976 to 1989. The ledgers meticulously recorded donations, cash disbursements, mortgage payments, retirement funds, and household expenses. The author was already aware of the house's colorful past, including its time as a seminary for Melkite seminarians and its prior occupancy by Timothy Leary in 1960 and 1961. Leary, then a Harvard psychology professor, began his LSD experimentation while living in the home. Despite this intriguing history, the family was primarily drawn to the house for its spaciousness, which was ideal for their blended family of six children, ensuring each child would have their own space. The volumes provided a tangible connection to the past inhabitants, prompting the author to ponder Leary's activities within the very rooms they now occupied. While the house's history served as an occasional hobby, the immediate needs of the property, such as plumbing, electrical, and critter control issues, demanded more frequent attention. Despite these ongoing maintenance challenges, the family actively lived and created new memories in the home. They hosted Thanksgiving gatherings with all six children and enjoyed Sunday barbecues on the porches, which had been added by the seminary as prayer chapels. These experiences fostered a sense of being more than just owners; the author felt a growing responsibility as a caretaker of the house's rich history, connecting their own narrative with those of Leary and the seminarians. The historical connection deepened when an elderly man in clerical attire appeared at their front door, identifying himself as a former resident from his seminary days. He was given a tour, during which he remarked on how different the house looked yet how familiar it felt. He recognized his old bedroom, the quirky upstairs bathroom, and was particularly struck by seeing the ledgers. Upon realizing the faint blue pen lines were his own handwriting from decades prior, he declined the author's offer to take them, stating they belonged there. He left behind a stack of photos from the seminary's early days and shared a humorous anecdote about a problematic stovetop that, to the author's amusement, continued to be an issue. After a decade of living in the house and building a family within its walls, the author and their husband are contemplating selling. This upcoming change is described as bittersweet, with the realization that their family is just one more set of temporary inhabitants in the house's long and continuous story. The house, along with its layered history, will eventually be passed on to new occupants, continuing its cycle of hosting diverse lives and experiences. #HistoricHome #HouseHistory #NewtonMassachusetts #TimothyLeary #MelkiteSeminary #FamilyLife #HomeOwnership #PersonalNarrative #RealEstate

This article details the thoughtful refurbishment of an early 'Old Hollywood' Spanish mission-style home in Sydney, drawing inspiration from iconic European and American establishments like Chateau Marmont and La Posta Vecchia. The homeowners, having purchased the property sight unseen during the 2021 Covid lockdown, entrusted Sydney-based interior designer Tamsin Johnson with its transformation. The residence, originally built in 1932 by architect F. Glynn Gilling, is one of Sydney’s inaugural Spanish mission-style houses and is situated on a lush, elevated street among similar properties. The owners were drawn to the house's inherent charm, its age, and distinctive features such as arches and multi-paned, wrought-iron windows, viewing it as a manageable renovation project. The renovation aimed to rejuvenate the home while remaining faithful to its architectural heritage, which had been obscured by previous, unsympathetic alterations. Tamsin Johnson’s approach was to infuse the space with a formal yet fresh aesthetic, aligning with the owners' desire for a home that evoked a 'European holiday' feel, characterized by a soft color palette, abundant natural light, and a timeless, classic design. A key initial step involved removing lowered bulkheads to reveal the original ceilings and cornices. New wrought iron-framed windows were installed to echo the original design, and a previously concealed arch in the bar area was reopened, improving the connection to the living space. The decorative rope motif found in the cornices was extended into the new joinery, and strategically placed studded mirrors were used to illuminate darker areas. Externally, landscape designer Paul Bangay was enlisted to reconfigure the courtyard, leveling it for enhanced usability and creating seamless access from the living room through arched doorways. Tamsin Johnson incorporated an outdoor fireplace into the courtyard, facilitating year-round entertaining and complementing the home’s 'cottage-y mood.' The interior designer consciously employed a liberal amount of white, a departure from her usual style, to expand the spaces and enhance light penetration without sacrificing sophistication. The all-white kitchen cabinetry, subtly enhanced by Elba marble accents, integrates fluidly with the adjacent living area, further enlivened by antique oil paintings and brass picture lights. The owners observed that the white palette effectively showcases their furnishings and accessories, making the home feel more spacious, cohesive, and brighter. Tamsin Johnson’s talent for integrating antiques into modern spaces is evident throughout, with pieces like an 18th-century Spanish oak table and 19th-century Italian hand-carved walnut chairs adding elegance to the dining room. Stainless-steel accents, such as a coffee table and a sculptural chair, introduce a contemporary edge, while vintage Murano vases brimming with foliage or roses inject vibrant touches. Noteworthy idiosyncratic details, including an involuto mirror, a bath-side stool with barley twist legs, and Plexiglas side tables in the bar, add character. For Tamsin, the Elba marble-trimmed arches, mirrored walls, and custom joinery are particularly satisfying elements, balancing lightness and substance. The home, despite its European influences, is considered uniquely Sydney, reflecting a harmonious blend of styles. Initially conceived for a couple, the renovation adapted to accommodate a new baby, transforming an upstairs office into a nursery, underscoring the home's adaptability and future-oriented design. #SpanishMissionStyle #OldHollywoodGlamour #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #SydneyArchitecture #TamsinJohnson #PaulBangay #AntiquesInDesign

In Seattle's historic Wedgwood neighborhood, a 1970s home has undergone a significant transformation, blending its original architectural character with modern functionality to suit a young family's lifestyle. The project, named The Wedge(wood), was a collaborative effort between Best Practice Architecture and Ainslie-Davis, a contracting firm with a personal connection to the property, as the home was originally built by a family member. The renovation focused on creating open, adaptable spaces while retaining nostalgic elements. The kitchen, previously enclosed and outdated, was a primary focus of the redesign. It was opened up to seamlessly connect with the dining area, enhancing the flow of the main living spaces. A new wooden bench was integrated, serving as a transitional element between the kitchen and dining zones. A notable feature is the lowered leaf on the kitchen island, specifically designed to encourage children's participation in meal preparation, fostering a more inclusive and interactive family environment. Respect for the home's heritage was a guiding principle. Key original features, such as the sunken living room and its vintage wood-burning stove, were preserved and integrated into the new design. To improve the connection between the living room and the adjacent kitchen and dining areas, existing partial-height walls were replaced with custom wood shelving. This solution maintained an open feel and unobstructed views to the outdoors, while still subtly defining distinct areas within the open-plan layout. A significant structural modification involved converting a formerly covered porch into a functional mudroom. Given Seattle's climate, this addition proved highly practical, providing a cheerful and organized space for managing wet weather gear. The mudroom features patterned tiles and ample storage, adding valuable square footage and enhancing the home's overall utility. Upstairs, the renovation continued with the addition of a full bathroom, addressing the family's growing needs. An underutilized great room was reconfigured to create both a new bedroom and a playroom, catering to the younger members of the household. The primary suite also received a comprehensive update. The design maximized natural light by preserving existing clerestory windows and created an airy, spa-like atmosphere in the newly designed bathroom. The removal of the upper portion of a dividing wall in the primary suite established a visual connection to the surrounding trees and sky, contributing to a tranquil and expansive ambiance within the private quarters. The overall renovation successfully balances preserving the home's historical essence with contemporary design and functionality. #HomeRenovation #Architecture #InteriorDesign #ModernLiving #SeattleHomes #FamilyHome #SustainableDesign #MidCenturyModern #KitchenDesign

This blog post details the stunning Jacobethan manor house located at 5901 Swiss Avenue, Dallas, a historic home with a rich past and extensive modern updates. Built in 1924 by M. E. Faber for C.A. Tucker at an original cost of $17,500, the property later served as the parsonage for the renowned Reverend W.A. Criswell, former head of the Southern Baptist Convention, for 66 years from 1942. Criswell's leadership saw First Baptist become the nation’s largest Southern Baptist congregation. The Jacobethan architectural style, characterized by striking semi-hexagonal, two-story bay windows, cast stone mullions, arched lintels over the front door, and overlapping gables, distinguishes this manor. A unique feature for its style is the red barrel-tiled roof, added by Faber, which contributes to its dramatic appearance. The home's current owners, Jean Bainbridge and Mike French, acquired the property in 2008, becoming only its third owners. They undertook a massive, comprehensive restoration project to modernize the house while preserving its historical integrity. This extensive renovation included the replacement of all plumbing, HVAC systems, ductwork, and gas lines, as well as updating all electrical wiring. The Reverend's original library was transformed into a master suite, and an elevator was installed for convenience. Mrs. Criswell’s former in-home radio studio was converted into Jean's office. Original features meticulously restored include the hardwood floors throughout the entire home, the plaster cove and trim in the stairway, the fireplace mantel and marble surround, and the stained and leaded glass windows. The massive front door, an original element, was also restored. All new surface finishes were carefully selected to mimic the aesthetic of the period in which the house was built. The iron gate at the entryway, installed by the Criswells, remains a significant historical detail. The 4,660-square-foot Jacobethan manor now boasts four living areas, four bedrooms, three bathrooms, and two powder baths. Additionally, it includes a two-story carriage house featuring a full living room and half bath downstairs, with a master bedroom and full bath upstairs. Elizabeth Mast of Briggs Freeman Sotheby's highlights a unique aspect of this manor: it is the only home on Swiss Avenue with a true master bedroom and master bath on the main floor, a rare feature for properties of its age. The master closet is noted for its size, comparable to those found in new constructions today. The property also includes a two-car attached garage, which was not common when the house was built. Jean and Mike particularly cherish their master suite, describing it as a "perfect oasis" on the first floor, connected to the second living area. The house was featured on the 2013 Swiss Avenue Mother’s Day Home Tour, showcasing its successful blend of historical preservation and modern luxury. The property is currently available for sale at $1.795 million. #SwissAvenue #JacobethanArchitecture #HistoricHome #DallasRealEstate #HomeRestoration #LuxuryHome #WACriswell #ArchitecturalPreservation

Older homes, despite their unique charm and aesthetics, often present a range of problems depending on their construction era. This article, featuring insights from Reuben Saltzman, CEO of Structure Tech Inspections, highlights common issues found in older homes and provides guidance on how to address them. One significant concern in homes built before the 1980s is the presence of 9x9-inch floor tiles containing asbestos. While intact, these tiles are harmless, but disturbing them can release dangerous fibers. Professional removal is recommended before any flooring replacement. Aluminum branch circuit wiring, popular in the 1960s and 70s, is another major safety hazard due to its tendency to expand and contract, leading to loose connections and potential fire risks. An electrician should inspect and repair such wiring. Asbestos, in various forms, can be found throughout older homes. Apart from floor tiles, it can be present in materials that are not wood or metal. Generally, it's safe if undisturbed, but any material containing asbestos should not be tampered with by homeowners. Attic bypasses, common in homes built before 1992, contribute to ice dams, frost, moisture, and mold. Addressing air leaks before sealing these bypasses is crucial and can be a DIY task or handled by a professional. Homes built before the 1930s might have buried fuel oil tanks, which, if not properly drained and filled, can leak and cause extensive environmental and financial damage. Locating these tanks by looking for vent pipes or metal caps is important, and professional environmental cleanup is required for removal or filling. Federal Pacific Stab-Lok panels, found in homes from the 1970s to late 1980s, pose a hidden fire hazard as they often fail to trip when overloaded. Replacing these panels, a relatively inexpensive investment, is strongly advised for safety. Galvanized drain and water pipes, used prior to 1960, corrode internally, restricting water flow and causing significant plumbing issues. Replacement with modern materials like PEX, copper, or PVC is the recommended solution. Knob and tube wiring, prevalent before the 1940s, is a safety concern due to potential modifications and age-related deterioration. A knowledgeable home inspector and an electrician should assess and repair such systems, and homeowners should confirm insurance coverage. Lead or galvanized water mains, common in the early 1930s, are problematic. Galvanized steel restricts water flow, and lead in water is a health risk. Homeowners can test for lead by scratching the pipe; a shiny silver scratch indicates lead. Stucco-covered chimneys from the 1920s-1940s, often built with sand-lime bricks, are susceptible to water damage from the inside out. Prompt repair is essential if water invasion is observed. Transite ductwork, used in the 1960s and 70s, can contain asbestos, making cleaning impossible and posing a health risk if disturbed. While not a simple fix, it's a known issue for potential homebuyers. Similarly, transite gas vents from 1949 to 1955 can flake apart, trapping exhaust gases and releasing carbon monoxide. Professional inspection and abandonment of deteriorated vents are critical for safety. Lastly, ungrounded outlets, common in pre-1962 homes, lack the crucial third prong for redirecting electrical current during ground-faults, increasing the risk of electric shocks. A licensed electrician should address these for safety, as DIY attempts can be dangerous. Vermiculite insulation, found in homes built between 1920 and 1990, may contain amphibole asbestos, which is particularly hazardous. Testing for asbestos and utilizing resources like the Zonolite Attic Insulation Trust for removal cost reimbursement are recommended. #OldHomeProblems #HomeInspection #AsbestosHazards #ElectricalSafety #PlumbingIssues #HistoricHomeRenovation #HomeMaintenance #DIYHomeRepair

A family in Seattle's Hawthorne Hills neighborhood, facing the challenge of outgrowing their 1948 three-bedroom, two-bathroom home with another child on the way, opted for a complete rebuild rather than relocating. The initial plan to remodel and add a second story evolved into a full ground-up reconstruction, allowing for optimal use of existing infrastructure, minimized site disruption, and cost efficiency. The primary design goals, as articulated by Aaron Trampush of Analog Architecture and Design, centered on fostering flow, establishing a strong connection to the backyard, and maximizing natural light throughout the residence. The original house, situated on a corner lot with a detached garage, possessed a large backyard, but its interior felt disconnected, making it difficult for parents to supervise children playing outdoors. The previous layout was characterized by small, poorly connected spaces, limited natural light, and a dark, low-ceilinged unfinished basement. The clients, Steve and Molly, desired an exterior that was distinct yet harmonious with the neighborhood's architectural style, while the interior was envisioned as a warm, kid-friendly, open, and light-filled environment seamlessly integrated with the backyard. Key design elements were implemented to achieve these objectives. The entry was made highly functional with ample storage. A window seat at the top of the stairs, overlooking the street, was incorporated to provide a cozy spot for story time while maintaining privacy and a connection to the community. The floor plan itself was influenced by the family's tradition of playing chase, with pocket doors around the office creating a continuous loop around the staircase, encouraging movement and playfulness. The central feature of the home's design is a light well positioned above the main staircase, which serves to channel sunlight into the heart of the house. The steel staircase, painted white, blends into the background while adding textural interest. The living room, intentionally designed to face the backyard rather than the street, offers a cozy yet open ambiance, complete with a fireplace and stone hearth. Transparent shelving near the windows helps define the space and provide privacy without completely isolating it from the outdoors. The kitchen and dining areas are tailored for both entertaining and daily family life, featuring floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open directly to the backyard, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor experience. The dining room, situated beneath a double-height space and catwalk, benefits from its central location and volume, making it suitable for larger gatherings. The home office, dubbed the “control center,” provides a flexible workspace that can be a quiet, focused area or opened up to the rest of the house via sliding pocket doors, incorporating features like a custom-built desk, a through-wall mail slot, and strategic architectural lighting. The primary bedroom offers views of the neighborhood and the University of Washington, complemented by a primary bathroom designed as a spa-like retreat with a soaking tub and steam shower. The overall design emphasizes thoughtful, playful details, functional spaces, and high-quality natural materials in warm tones, creating a comfortable, timeless, and personalized home for the growing family. The homeowners expressed satisfaction with the flow, comfort, and meticulous execution of the design and materials.

This article details the transformation of a 1925 Colonial home in Seattle's Montlake neighborhood, owned by Sally and Anders Zwartjes. The couple purchased the 3,000-square-foot house in 2016, drawn to its charm but recognizing the need for significant updates to accommodate a family of four, particularly the limited one and a half bathrooms and outdated features. Designer Casey Keasler of CASEWORK, a family friend, was enlisted to lead the extensive renovation. The project spanned a year and a half and involved both cosmetic changes, such as new flooring and fresh paint, and dramatic structural modifications. A 500-square-foot addition was integrated into the home, expanding its overall footprint. The primary goal was to modernize the living space for a contemporary family while respectfully preserving the colonial style and original architectural elements. Keasler emphasized the importance of functionality, collaborating with architect Paul Crowther to secure permits before focusing on the aesthetic details. A key aspect of the renovation involved altering the home's original layout to better suit the family's needs. This included the decision to convert one of the four original bedrooms into a full second bathroom, prioritizing utility over adherence to traditional room counts. This strategic choice highlights a flexible approach to renovation, where individual family requirements dictate design decisions rather than rigid conventions. The addition also included a larger kitchen, a significant item on Sally and Anders' wish list. This new kitchen features a classic white design, a breakfast nook, a pantry, and a mudroom, contributing to a brighter and more open feel throughout the home. The window-lined breakfast nook, in particular, was designed as a central gathering space for the family. Keasler aimed to balance the inherent seriousness and symmetry of colonial architecture with a more relaxed, Northwest aesthetic. This equilibrium was achieved through deliberate contrasts. Existing period details such as built-ins, cove ceilings, crown molding, and oak floors were maintained and refreshed. The millwork and built-ins, for example, replicated the intricate details of the original cabinetry, including the bead on the inside cabinet panels, ensuring consistency with the home's historical character. To introduce modern elements and create visual interest, Keasler incorporated contemporary furniture and light fixtures, often in mid-century, Scandinavian, or modern styles. Graphic-style rugs were also used to provide a modern accent against the traditional backdrop. The designer's tips for blending old and new include maintaining consistency with metal finishes, refreshing existing features like built-ins with new paint and hardware, and unifying the home's trim and molding with a consistent color and varying sheens to achieve a modern look. This project demonstrates that a careful integration of historical preservation and modern functionality can create a home that is both charming and highly livable. #ColonialHome #HomeRenovation #ModernFacelift #InteriorDesign #SeattleRealEstate #HistoricalPreservation #StructuralChanges #KitchenDesign #ContemporaryLiving

The ranch-style home, also known as American Ranch, California ranch, rambler, or rancher, is a distinct domestic architectural style originating in the United States. Its defining feature is a single-story layout, with the main living space always on the ground floor, even if some variations include a loft, semi-finished attic, or basement. This architectural style gained significant popularity after World War II, particularly flourishing in the mid-1950s, a period that saw a surge in construction of these homes. A key characteristic of most ranch-style houses is their open floor plan, which seamlessly connects the living room, dining room, and kitchen. However, some ranch homes still maintain this style even with more defined, separate rooms. The appeal of ranch-style houses extends to various demographics, including individuals looking to downsize. The single-story design makes them more manageable and safer to navigate due to the absence of stairs, though many do incorporate a basement. Additionally, these homes are often considered suitable for new families with young children, primarily due to their affordability and the convenience of having all living spaces on one level. On Staten Island, brick is frequently observed as the primary construction material for ranch homes. It is common to find entire streets where several ranch-style houses were built in the same year, illustrating a period of concerted development. An example is a 1,016-square-foot ranch home in West Brighton, constructed in 1955, which is situated among a row of similar residences on the same block. This particular home has undergone extensive renovations by its current owner, Eileen Duffy, who moved into the neighborhood in 2018. Duffy relocated from a larger house nearby and expresses appreciation for the convenience and walkability of West Brighton, noting that amenities like food shopping, restaurants, nail salons, and her workplace are all within easy reach. She actively engages in seasonal decorating, modifying both the interior and exterior of her home to reflect the current season. For instance, during the fall, her home features autumn colors and Halloween-themed decor. Duffy regards her ranch-style home as ideally suited for her current life stage and anticipates it will be her permanent residence, highlighting the enduring appeal and functionality of this architectural type. #RanchStyleHome #StatenIslandArchitecture #HomeDesign #PostWarHousing #SingleStoryLiving #ArchitecturalHistory #HomeRenovation #OpenFloorPlan #CoolSpaces