Alki Retreat
Project Overview
Just a block from the shoreline and tucked into a shady hillside, this Alki home—originally built in 1919—underwent a complete transformation. Decades of prior renovations left little of the original structure intact, allowing us to reimagine the home from the inside out.
The project began with major structural upgrades, including new post-and-beam support to open the kitchen and improve flow. Outside, the fragmented yard was unified through thoughtful grading, drainage, and a cohesive bluestone landscape design. New patios, stairways, and a pool reconnect previously inaccessible areas, creating functional spaces designed for gathering and entertaining.
Inside, new front-facing windows bring symmetry and natural light, while quarter-sawn white oak floors, detailed trim work, and an ornate stair configuration elevate the home’s character. Custom cabinetry throughout—topped with soapstone and myrtlewood butcher block—balances timeless materials with everyday functionality. Extensive lighting, curated fixtures, and refined finishes complete the renovation, resulting in a home that feels both grounded in history and thoughtfully renewed.
Project Team
Architecture/ Design
- Robert Edswin Swain
Lead Carpenter
- Aaron Meadows
Photography
