Carefree Way, Friday Harbor, Washington

 

This San Juan Island retreat consistently provides a new way of looking at things. Its unique "pods and pavilions" architecture lets you enjoy views of orca whales in Haro Strait from every possible angle.

It's only nine miles away from Vancouver Island.

It was the creation of Edgar and Polly Stern, who are best known for developing Utah's Deer Valley ski resort in the 1970's- 80's.

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In 1989 they were looking for new views to appreciate. They built this island compound on fourteen acres with 967 feet of shoreline.

Edgar Stern used to say, "If you don't go first class, don't make the trip" and this estate certainly reflects that idea.

The entry pavilion is open to the view, and in this older (2022) listing photo, open to eclectic decorating:

It's currently unfurnished:

I had a little fun finding pieces to fill it:

This next before photo shows just how spacious the living room is...

but it's easier to see its potential when it's empty:

Again, here's a quick idea on how to simplify the furnishings to better appreciate the view:

{Cortney Bishop}

My idea would still play nicely with the existing window seat:

Here's another angle of the room:

The ceiling and walls are fir and the floors are teak.

Like the living room's deck, the dining room is octagonal. Here is a colorful shot of it from 2022:

Here's how it looks currently:

Here's how it would look, if it were mine:

{Celerie Kemble}

Following the theme of "a new way of looking at things," the design is very bold and contemporary, but would play nicely with the shape of the room. It also continues the neutral colors that don't compete with the outside views.

And, it ties in nicely to the black and white marble kitchen:

The master suite already has a neutral backdrop to highlight the amazing view. Here's how it looked in 2022:

And how it looks today:

Soaking is twice as important as breathing and relaxing.

Even the closet has a view:

Here's another bedroom in the main house. The property has five bedrooms and six and a half bathrooms -- but I think they're spread out in their own pods. 

There appears to be two guest houses. The property's total square footage is 11,029, but the agent says that includes all of the buildings. This is the first guest quarters:

Here is the second guest house:

There's also a tea house, just for a little extra square footage:

It provides yet another unique way to look at things, as do these whale tail sculptures:

It's too late to take a prospective buyer's look at the property, though. It just sold prior to its upcoming auction. Its listing is here.