The goal was to redesign and remodel an island guest cottage, originally built as a shed in the 1930’s, and situated 150 feet from the western shore with views of the San Juan Islands – on a 6 month timeline.
The owners wanted a design that reflected the open, breezy, and light-filled view of the ocean that has welcomed their family for 3 generations. The existing cottage was 600 sq. ft. and with the expansion grew to 1248 sq. ft., the maximum allowed by county regulations for an ADU. The new design has an open living/dining/kitchen area and the two bedrooms are off to the sides in a T-shape. The long sightlines allow many vantages throughout the cottage for the family to view the water and the islands.
Underneath the wood siding of the existing cottage, the effects of time had taken their toll. A combination of wood rot, rodent infestation, structural deficiencies, and mold and mildew damage necessitated tearing down approximately 95% of the structure before work could begin on the new design.
The owners needed the cottage completed in 6 months, from design to final inspection.
We submitted for a building permit after finalizing the design 1 month into the project. We received the final inspection 5 months later.
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Beach Cottage before remodel
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Dining area with reclaimed french doors
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Kitchen with 10' schist countertop with schist farm sink
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Beach Cottage after remodel and addition
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Gas fireplace with dry stack Pennsylvania blue stone hearth and reclaimed wood mantel
