Design house: historic, waterfront property, designed by Kelie Grosso of Maison Luxe

This historic Bainbridge Island property has been in the same family for over 100 years, hosting generations of family gatherings and vacations on the the pristine waterfront. Think fire pits on the rocky beaches, salt water and seagulls, watching the ferries headed to and from Seattle glide past, dogs running around, blue skies and bluer water. A pretty magical setting, and only 30 minutes by ferry from downtown Seattle.

See ourDesign house: Luxury, seaside home in California, designed by Kelie Grosso of Maison Luxe

THE PROPERTY

An original, smaller beach house was on this site as recently as 2016 when the current beach house was conceived and designed to host the next generations of a large and growing family. The site features endless views of Puget Sound, a lush lawn stretching from the outdoor terrace all the way to the rocky beach below – which has an incredible and irreplaceable wooden dock historically used for trading by local island residents.

In the summer 2016 we were approached to discuss a collaboration with the family and Seattle architect Jim Replinger of RHO Architects – what the future of this property would be meant more than considering the current inhabitants, but generations to come. We kept coming back to the same concept over and over again – embracing the stunning placement of the home on the property, taking advantage of the open water views, all while creating a cosy retreat for family and friends to enjoy worry-free for years to come. All of the material selections for the home were based on natural materials that could be procured locally whenever possible.

LIVING ROOM

The main living room is equal parts cosy and elegant, with a massive limestone fireplace hearth, a hand-troweled plaster surround, and deep nooks on either side for cosying up with a book on a quiet afternoon.

Furnishings and fabrics were kept to a minimal colour palette – washed blues, taupes, whites, Belgian linens, washed cottons, and natural woven grasses are used throughout the home to keep the cosy factor high and the focus on making memories in a family home made to host the generations to come.

DINING ROOM

Furniture, accessory, and fabric selections were made with lounging top of mind – natural linens that age beautifully, indoor / outdoor fabrics that look great and perform even better, wool rugs that are naturally cleanable and durable, fresh white cotton bedding in every bedroom always feels crisp and fresh.

HALLWAY

BREAKFAST ROOM

'A favourite room of ours (and the clients) is the breakfast room, just adjacent to the open kitchen,' says Kelie Grosso. 'We love the idea of lounging on a Belgian linen sofa having coffee in the morning, watching the ferries glide past. I know the family uses this room daily, and we really wanted it to function as a casual retreat from the main living room which is a bit more structured. White painted shiplap paneling contrasts beautifully with the natural Fir beams in the main floor living spaces, creating a feeling of quiet and calm.'

KITCHEN

See ourDesign house: Small, elegant home with smart storage, designed by Heidi Caillier

BAR

BOOT ROOM

MAIN BEDROOM

MAIN BATHROOM

GUEST BATHROOM

Photography/ Jim Henkens

Interior design/ Kelie Grosso / Maison Luxe