This Washington Craftsman Was Big on Charm, But Tight on Space—See How It Was Renovated

There were so many things to love about this original 1920s Craftsman home in Bellingham, Washington. It had charming architectural details and overlooked the water, with stunning views of the San Juan Islands.

Michael P.H. Clifford

But there was room for improvement, especially to suit the needs of its occupants, a busy family of five with young children. “The house was charming but very much outdated, with original kitchens and baths, and the upstairs was small and cramped with no finished basement,” interior designer Lisa Staton explains. It had good bones, but was on the smaller side with cramped, low ceilings. It has also only had a few bedrooms and bathrooms.

Michael P.H. Clifford

Lisa’s clients wanted to keep the home’s charm and many of its original features, but they wanted to open it up to be larger and airier for gatherings. “They wanted the home to be inviting, warm, and with heritage layers throughout,” she adds. A casual and easy feel was also the goal.

For inspiration, they used original Pacific Northwest Craftsman homes as a starting point, plus antiques and clean and classic finishes. The renovation was a full gut renovation down to the studs, and included a large addition.

Michael P.H. Clifford

In the entry, Lisa and team maintained the old fir floors and all the antique light fixtures. “Black was used to keep it handsome and classic,” she adds.

Michael P.H. Clifford

Moving into the living room, they kept its original footprint, but a new fireplace and bookshelves were added. The lighting throughout the whole house is vintage, which adds authenticity.

Michael P.H. Clifford

“The kitchen and dining are part of a larger addition to open up the back of the house,” Lisa says. “Craftsman details were added throughout while an openness of scale was introduced. Classic painted cabinets, marble countertops, box beams, and brass fittings all wink to the original era of the house.” The space opens to a large deck with beautiful views.

Michael P.H. Clifford

Upstairs in the primary suite, the black paint trim detail carries through and an original chimney is left exposed. A deep soaking tub and steel enclosed shower were added to the primary bathroom. “Casual mid-century pieces and more heritage antiques are combined for furnishings to keep things warm and not too fussy,” says Lisa.

Michael P.H. Clifford

Now, the space is four-bedroom, four-bathroom home that has been updated for modern, family-friendly living, but also retains its Craftsman appeal. Lisa and team were able to restore the original chimney, floors, hardware, and transom windows, and extend the Craftsman details to the addition.

Michael P.H. Clifford

“They love it!,” Lisa says of the owners. “They’re very proud of the home, and they were real knee-deep collaborators the whole way through and it shows!”