E
CREATING
ISLAND
SANCTUARIES
E
The joys, difficulties, and delight
of building and remodeling in
the San Juan Islands.
By MIKAELA JUDD
WHEN IT COMES TO AHHHH-EVOKING retreats, it’s not hard to figure
out why folks are gravitating to the San Juan Islands. From the grassy
meadows and windswept beaches to the practically untouched forests,
the sparsely populated archipelago feels like it’s worlds away.
Island life can present some challenges, to be sure, like the necessity
to commute by boat or seaplane. But with the right getaway home,
escaping the hustle and bustle to immerse yourself in the landscape
still comes with all the modern-day conveniences that make a house
comfortable and cozy.
As with building anywhere, the most successful construction projects
in the San Juans are highly specialized to the homeowner’s needs and
the job site. The following three projects take into account each of the
unique settings, maximizing the views, environmental impact, and
homeowner’s comfort.
I was able to interview the architects on each project, where I learned
the driving forces behind each home build and remodel. Their answers,
edited for brevity, give insight into each project.
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