This article appears in print in the November 2019 issue. Click here to subscribe.

Strikingly modern forms might dominate glossy magazine pages (including ours) these days, but for many, the quintessential single-family Seattle dream home comes from the past: the Craftsman, a style of house that was built from the late 19th century to the 1930s. Small wonder, as these homes, with their hug-like mix of wide eaves, low-pitched roofs and chunky porches, are basically the family-friendly golden retrievers of home design. As increasing numbers of the city’s Craftsman-style abodes fall to development, such homes have become ever more prized (and pricey!). We found three dramatically different 100-plus-year-old versions proudly holding their ground at or around $1.5 million.

West Queen Anne
1806 Eighth Ave. W

The overview: Enjoying an aptly haughty hilltop perch, this two-story, four-bedroom, three-bathroom Craftsman made its debut in 1904. Its refined character remains intact, thankfully, along with its original leaded windows and front door. The property is within a healthy strolling distance of Macrina Bakery, How to Cook a Wolf, Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s and Molly Moon’s. (Psst! The summer brought a $126,000 price drop. But the real sticker shocker? In 1979, this home sold for $38,000!)

PERIOD CHARM: Original leaded windows compliment era-appropriate updates in Queen Anne. Photo by Vista Estate Imagery

Inside and out: A terraced walkway bordered by a hedge-and-rock wall leads to a graceful white-framed portico. Inside, elegance reigns, from the new pale gray and white paint scheme and era-appropriate lighting—an Arts and Crafts–style pendant hangs over the dining room—to the richly refinished maple and cherry hardwood floors. While the layout remains refreshingly traditional (no open floor plan here), all rooms show evidence of a sophisticated update. The kitchen, for instance, is wrapped in bright woods and professional appliances, and there’s a modern media room (although it’s fitted with a retro convenience, a Murphy bed). French doors graciously open to a back terrace and large courtyard, which seems just the right size to accommodate one of those newly allowed ADUs.

The details: $1.25 million • Built in 1904 • 3,030 SQF • $412 per SQF • 4 bedrooms, 3 baths • Parking: Off-street, alley access • Walk score: 84
Architect: Unknown
Listing agent: Steve Kennedy Team, Compass Real Estate, Seattle; 206.501.5100; stevekennedy.com

Phinney Ridge
120 N 77th St.

The overview: Built in 1914, this two-story, three-bedroom, four-bathroom Craftsman is a case study in preservation and sustainability. A $500,000-plus remodel in 2008 updated energy systems to four-star Built Green sustainable standards and revived the home’s original curb-stopping mustard-and-cardinal exterior palette. Green Lake is within easy walking distance, as are popular Greenwood Avenue retail and restaurants like Diva Espresso, 74th Street Ale House and Ken’s Market. (Psst! Also appealing: As of press time, there had been a $145,000 price cut.)

HIDE TECH: Updated energy systems meet sustainable standards while new built-ins give a nod to authenticity in Phinney Ridge. Photo by HD Estates

Inside and out: A sophisticated street prospect, enhanced by drought-tolerant landscaping and a gable-and-brick entrance, comes with a sought-after bonus: a detached single-car garage topped by a roomy ironwood deck. Of course, like the rest of the home, the garage has been completely updated, automated and insulated. (The roof was replaced in 2017.) Modern new efficiencies include double-pane insulated windows, a European-style “closed-loop” radiant heating system, high-tech cabling and a smart security system. Thoughtful interior updates brighten the space while preserving period charm, such as the hand-glazed ceramic tiles in the chef’s kitchen, and the striking white-tiled fireplace and built-in bookcases that add character to the spacious living room. Warm fir stylings throughout—from the kitchen cabinetry to the interior doors and upstairs master-bath vanity—evoke its signature Craftsman pedigree. Completing the charm offensive is a sweet backyard with fruiting apple trees.
The details: $1.25 million • Built in 1914 • 2,327 SQF • $537 per SQF • 3 bedrooms, 4 baths • Parking: 1-car garage• Walk score: 92
Architect: Unknown
Listing agent: Kyle Moss, Compass; 206.619.6136; kylemoss.com