FIVE MODERN SUMMER HOME GETAWAYS — SEATTLE AREA
Tom Trimbath
Get ready to chill despite the heat. Summer is starting, but in Seattle, normally the real heat doesn’t show up for a couple of weeks. This year, we’ve been gifted an early summer and it caught us a little off guard. If you don’t already have air conditioning or sweet breezes, it might be handy to book a few nights in one of the local AirBnB rentals to help you cool off. Gin & tonics can only do so much, sometimes you need to indulge in a change of scenery, enjoy amenities your house doesn’t have, and even try out someone else’s modern abode with a different design and set of gadgets. Try before you buy, and relax at the same time.
Plus, these homes are not only large enough to bring the whole family, but are also pet friendly, which makes them perfect for a long weekend, a girl’s trip, a family barbeque, or just a relaxing change of scenery. It’s time to plan a local modern summer getaway for the whole crew.
Modern Traveler’s Dream Home
It may be on historic Queen Anne, but this modern house was built in 2017. Designed in slate and light grey for classic modernity, but with rich wood accents that reflect the Pacific Northwest. That’s a true indoor/outdoor combo. The gas fireplace inside works well with the decor, but the more memorable fireplace sits on the rooftop deck providing ambiance — possibly while watching for glimpses of summer fireworks and air shows. Your stay is also an opportunity to try out Amazon’s Fire TV and Echo. VIEW LISTING
Large Amazing Downtown Lakefront
Hot and cold running water? Well, of course. Hot and cold pools of water, well, that’s truly something special. The rental makes that possible by providing a hot tub (with a waterfall!) sitting along a hundred feet of Lake Washington’s shoreline. Swim off the dock to cool off and play during the day, then let the hot tub relax your muscles while you enjoy the stars after sunset. From the water, the modern style is evident in the angular features and external spiral staircase. From the inside, check out the hemispherical, tile-encrusted wood stove, and the free-floating staircase. VIEW LISTING
Luxury Entertainment with Ocean Views
Look out over the salt water of Puget Sound from a 3,000 square foot Pacific Northwest modern home on Vashon Island. The design was inspired by spas, is ready for gourmet presentations, and is equipped with modern conveniences in a setting that also encourages unplugging. Even the bathrooms are worth spending a minute in, just to admire their design. For something more engaging, there’s a kitchen with high-end appliances, pragmatic choices like an industrial faucet sprayer over a country style sink, and something as simple and appreciated as the hundred bottle wine fridge. Foodies can head outdoors for a grill, while the rest of the party plays on a dedicated bocce court, a rare find. The natural entertainment can’t be scheduled, but look around for a variety of wildlife that may walk, fly, or swim by. VIEW LISTING
Modern Home Near Lincoln Park
Futuristic panels provide the siding for this modern home in West Seattle. It isn’t on the water, but you can get there from here. Innovations don’t always have to include high-technology. The rope ladder leading to the loft bed is a fine example of stepping past convention to something easy to implement. It may be best to let the kids try it out first. Then, send them on their way to scope out the basketball hoop and the trampoline outside. One technical innovation to explore are the installed Apple TVs. What’s on your movie list? This home has the screens for a great movie night, including one up to 65 inches. Bring popcorn. VIEW LISTING
Bayside Retreat on Bainbridge Island
Another island retreat, and retreating is one things island are especially good for. There’s more wood than steel and glass, yet the design maintains a modern feel with expansive windows, subtle use of concrete, and functional metal accents. The multi-level house takes you up into the trees, while the stone steps lead to Bainbridge Island’s shoreline. Luxury becomes a verb. The master bed is flanked by glass panels. The master bath is exotic enough to feel like you’re relaxing in another world. Murphy beds are something else to try out, especially as floor space becomes more valuable in urban layouts. Enjoy the design details, make notes to take home, play in the water of the bay, then play in the water of the bath. Whatever you have planned for your island retreat, this home will take care of you. VIEW LISTING
These certainly aren’t the only options in the Seattle area. And AirBnB isn’t the only option either. Plenty of people are opening their modern homes for part-time rentals. Renting a local home may be one of the best ways to see and experience the newest designs and technologies, frequently in natural settings. And, if nothing else, enjoy that air conditioning as the Seattle summer starts to heat up.
