Historic Cape Cod Restoration in Seattle

Designer: Cat Schmidt, Model Remodel

Location: Laurelhurst, Seattle, WA

Scope: Kitchen, Bathrooms, Living Rooms, Dining Room, Bedrooms, Exterior

Sustainability: Low-VOC paint, 80-90% recycle rate, LED kitchen lighting, tankless water heater

Built in 1926, this home on a hill was failing after being vacant for over ten years. The interior was not only dated, but also decaying. What was advertised as a tear-down, listed online as a “rare opportunity to build your dream home on an oversized panoramic perch,” was heroically restored by our clients and dedicated team. We’re proud of the hard work that went into saving this historic building and the classic Cape Cod home that was born from it.

The shingled exterior is a spectacular transformation from the charcoal exterior that once was. The kiln-dried shingles were sourced from Maine and will eventually fade to that quintessential grey color the Cape Cod style is known for. We used local and recycled materials elsewhere, plus high-efficiency appliances and fixtures, to achieve a 3-Star Built Green certification. We also safely removed lead-based paint from the windows, siding and chimneys.

The blue kitchen countertops and master bath slabs are Azul granite—a striking stone that anchors the ocean-inspired aesthetic. We meticulously sourced large slabs so we would have as few seams as possible and the pattern would wrap around the corners of the bathroom. Complimentary pottery is displayed in the kitchen with a plate ledge and open shelving. Cherry wood cabinets made by Smith & Vallee add warmth to the home in the kitchen and the living room.

More marine blue can be seen in the reclaimed fireplace tiles with a custom grout color to match. Throughout the home, almost every detail was custom-made. A flawless, curved wood railing was made for the stairs by Gauge Design Group. The fireplace mantles were built by one of our carpenters and based off of a famous painting. Upstairs, another carpenter transformed an antique wardrobe into a built-in mirror. They were unique and challenging tasks, but with time and attention comes features of the home that look like they’ve been there for a century.

The new kitchen footprint and customized cabinets make the main floor more functional. We also relocated the washer/dryer upstairs, saving our clients countless trips to the basement.

Now the home is calm and filled with natural light. The homeowners, who often vacation in Cape Cod, have added décor from their trips and continue to source antiques from their favorite east coast destination.

Photos: Cindy Apple Photography

BEFORE & AFTER

Gallery

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