Meydenbauer: Moon over …Swoon over Meydenbauer

This house elicited one of those dreaded emotional reactions you are supposed to keep in check when looking for a new home. But I’m not looking to buy a home, so I can get emotional. I love this house. Love it. As I poked around and took the whole thing in, I felt a little more rational seeing a few things that would probably take this house out of consideration for a dog owner like me (ie. a fenced yard for outdoor potty breaks). But I still love it. I think it’s a good example of the new trend of understanding the impact of space and home design on our psyche.

On first arrival from 94th Ave NE, I was a little concerned about the access to this house from a shared driveway. But after the nice showing agent explained the layout, it made sense. It is an oddly shaped lot, but the end of the shared part becomes the beginning of this property’s driveway, which then extends down to 92nd Ave NE. I know this sounds a bit confusing, but I bet it’s easiest to access the house from 92nd.

Now to the good stuff. This house was completely remodeled and the design is just perfect in the space. It blends in beautifully, and is situated so that everyone in this little cul-de-sac has privacy, despite the proximity of the other houses. For example, the stunning (no exaggeration) kitchen has windows that do face the house next door, but that side of the neighboring house is all walls, no windows.

Even though I don’t personally like a “rustic” look, the entryway tile is incredibly beautiful white stone. You already know how I feel about the kitchen. The only thing I’d change is taking the washer/dryer out of what obviously should be the pantry. There’s a laundry room downstairs with plenty of room for the washer/dryer. The living room, through a pretty, framed, wide opening from the kitchen, is the epitome of a modern, warm and inviting space. The master, with its water view, has a bath with jetted tub, a semi-circular shower, huge walk-in closet. The same attention to detail exists in all the rooms downstairs. Window and door placement contribute to the light airy feel throughout the whole house.

I could go on and on. The only potential drawback is the yard, or lack thereof. At this price, in this neighborhood, you might want more of your own outdoor space. There is a small patio area off the living room, but the “yard” is a sloping grass or planting area on the other side of the house. If you would prefer a low-to-no maintenance type of yard, it would be ideal.

Ahh…..I love this house. If you buy it, please invite me over. I really want to see it again.

STATS:
Price: $1,454,900.
Location: 19 94th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA 98004
Last sale price: $899,000. (in May, 2006)
Square footage: 2660 sq. ft.. Lot size: 8330 sq. ft.
Bedrooms: 4 Baths: 2.75
http://www.redfin.com/stingray/do/printable-listing?listing-id=306423