1550 N 38th St, Seattle, WA 98103

From its beginnings as a houseboat on Lake Union, this cottage was moved to Wallingford in 1924. The original 800 sq ft structure consisted of four rooms and a sleeping loft accessed by a ladder. The current owner, an architect, has carefully renovated, modernized and expanded the home without losing the essence of the original aesthetic.In 2004 Robert and Margo lifted the houseboat from the original post and block land moorings, poured a new concrete foundation and added a spacious studio apartment with private patio and entrance. At the same time a second story bedroom suite with a bridge crossing above the dining area threaded through the original houseboat rafters and sloping ceiling was created. Thoughtful planning and Roberts appreciation for detail is evident in features such as wood board ceilings, exposed beams, and spiral ductwork along with a little whimsy: recycled wooden stair newel posts, the re-use of old wrought iron railings and a window installed at a 45 degree angle to frame a similar gable design in a neighboring farmhouse.From the front porch you step into the original restored houseboat living room with coved ceilings, picture molding, paneled windows and a new efficient gas fireplace with a simple slate hearth. Step through to the vaulted dining room and adjoining kitchen with all new cabinets, appliances and lighting. A small loft above the stairwell to the lower level laundry is the perfect nook for an office. Convenient French doors off the dining room open onto a western facing balcony, a place to relax at sunset. A Dutch door To the East opens onto a deck enclosed with lattice and overhead wisteria trellis, creating a private space for relaxation, the BBQ, container gardening and entertaining.The downstairs studio apartment has a separate entrance both to the unit and the laundry room. As you step through one of the three Dutch doors youll appreciate the open plan and efficient use of space. A large totally equipped kitchen and dining area adjoin a cozy living space with a gas fireplace. The sleeping alcove easily accommodates a Queen bed. Roberts attention to design is evident with the arches in the sleeping area and bathroom, modern lighting, exposed ductwork, walk-in closet and thoughtful placement of windows for natural light and ventilation.All the internal systems have received the same care and attention: updated electrical and plumbing, two gas furnaces, separate electric and gas meters, low E insulated windows and energy efficient insulation in all new construction. The established gardens are a mix of mature plantings, blooming perennials, various trees and curbside vegetable and herb patches. The house has been featured in several publications for its unique history and design, and has been on the Seattle garden tours several times in the past. Designated as a legal Duplex you have choices: convert to single family home or live in one unit and rent the other. This home is a gem, one of a kind - in an amazing Wallingford location!