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Project

Vashon Island retreat: A transformed summer home

Creating a warm and inviting space for friends and family to enjoy.

Published on 09 February, 2023 by Ash Read

Vashon Island, located just a 20-minute ferry ride from Seattle, is home to a stunning interior design project led by designer Rachel Waldron. The client was looking for a summer and weekend home that could accommodate friends and family, and Waldron and her team breathed new life into an old, neglected home.

The project started with a dilapidated house surrounded by tall cedar trees on one side and breathtaking coastal views on the other. Waldron was inspired by the beautiful setting and aimed to create a home that would embrace the forested Pacific Northwest (PNW) style while acknowledging the coastal views.

Photo: Clarity Northwest PhotographyThis sunroom/living room was designed to make the most of the stunning views.

Photo: Clarity Northwest PhotographyThis open plan living space combines Mid-Century and Pacific Northwest Contemporary styles.

Open plan living space — Photo: Clarity Northwest PhotographyThis open plan living space combines Mid-Century and Pacific Northwest Contemporary styles.

Waldron said, "I love that we were able to breathe new life into an old home while maintaining its integrity and charm." One of her favorite design elements was the continuity of materials and finishes from one space to the next. "Continuity from space to space is one of our design joys," she added.

Continuity from space to space is one of our design joys.
Rachel Waldron

The home now features light and airy spaces to highlight the coastal views, as well as darker "forested" spaces to celebrate the PNW style. The use of natural materials and the incorporation of the surrounding forest and coastal elements creates a cohesive and harmonious design.

Photo: Clarity Northwest PhotographyThis space was designed to embrace the coastal views.

Dining room overlooking a lake — Photo: Clarity Northwest PhotographyThis space was designed to embrace the coastal views.

The project is a perfect example of how to create a stunning retreat that embraces its surroundings and offers a warm and inviting space for friends and family to enjoy.