Ralph
Working on this 1966 Ralph Anderson design was both a dream project and a challenge for owner and architect Steve Hoedemaker and his husband Tommy Swenson. The architectural DNA of the home relates directly to details developed at Paul Kirk’s office, where Ralph worked with Steve’s father David Hoedemaker. The project began with a reverence that allowed the house itself to serve as design inspiration.
After over 50 years of service, there were a few areas that showed wear; this created an opportunity to open up the home and take renewed advantage of the surrounding nature and water views. For example, a flip of the plan of the original primary bathroom gave every part of the space a great view of the Puget Sound, where previously there was little contact. Tommy and Steve appreciated the level of finish in the living areas and wanted to elevate the kitchen, bedroom, bath, and outdoor kitchen to the same level while taking more advantage of the light and views throughout the home.
The “Therapy” sign above the primary bed is a thrifted find by Steve and Tommy from many years ago — it was originally used on the set of Northern Exposure, a CBS comedy set in small-town Alaska that ran in the first half of the 1990s. The homeowners took to it as an element of whimsey, and it has traveled with them ever since.
In the primary bath, a steam shower, Japanese Ofuro soaking tub, toilet, and vanities all look out toward the water. The Ofuro tub is something the owners had dreamed of for many years, and working with a manufacturer in Alaska, the tub was designed to fit perfectly into this alcove. It was installed over a shower pan so the water could overflow the rim of the tub, allowing a truly deep bath experience.
The kitchen is separate from the dining and living areas, so it was critical that it could itself become a place to entertain. Whether it is just the owners having a meal at the bar, or a group of friends sitting in the window seat for a cocktail—the kitchen had to be both highly functional and a great place to hang out. It was reoriented to provide a bar and window seat for socializing, while maintaining a dedicated work zone that overlooks the Salish Sea. HenryBuilt cabinets offer a high level of finish, functionality, and integration for two ovens, two refrigerators, and lots of storage.
The idea of a window seat in the kitchen heavily contributed to the impetus for the remodel in the first place— the homeowners envisioned a space where you can comfortably sit in the garden while engaging the kitchen. Whether snuggling with dogs in front of the TV or grabbing a bite – this is the spot.
The outdoor kitchen’s limited functionality, resulting from an older remodel, was remedied by opening the space and adding a significant window to the view. The swing doors and windows bring a final layer of ease, making it into a space that works great for catering, parties, or making meals by the pool.
