Nestled in the historic Montlake district of Seattle, a peculiar house stands as a testament to both architectural ingenuity and a tale of love gone awry.
Built in 1925, this unique abode has a backstory that’s as intriguing as its design.
Legend has it that a couple, once owners of a larger plot, decided to part ways.
Instead of dividing their home, the wife received half of the lot.
With a mix of spite and creativity, she built a house on her half, strategically positioned to block her ex-husband’s view.
The house’s design is undeniably distinctive, often likened to a wedge of cheese due to its tapering shape.
At its narrowest, the house measures a mere 55 inches, just wide enough for a door.
On the other end, it expands to 15 feet.
This unconventional design has led to many referring to it as the “Montlake Spite House.”
Despite its odd shape, the house has seen numerous owners over the years, each of whom has cherished its unique charm and left it largely intact.
Stepping inside, one can’t help but be reminded of the compact efficiency of a boat.
The entrance leads to what might have once been a porch, now serving as a mudroom.
The original fur flooring hints at its past, while the stucco on the interior walls matches the exterior, suggesting that this space has remained largely unchanged over the years.
The living area, though compact, is thoughtfully designed.
A dining table comfortably seats six, with lucite chairs chosen for their light-transmitting properties, ensuring the room feels open and airy.
The original hardware on the doors and windows adds a touch of historical authenticity, while a closet with a window offers a quirky design feature that sparks curiosity.
The bathroom, shaped like a wedge, presents its own set of challenges.
The angled walls mean that the door can’t fully open without hitting the toilet.
Yet, despite its compact size, it offers all the essentials: a tub, a shower, and enough space to move around.
The bedroom, accommodating a queen-sized bed and two dressers, offers a cozy retreat.
The proximity to the neighboring house serves as a constant reminder of the home’s unique origin story.
It’s hard not to imagine the original owner, a woman determined to stake her claim, living just a stone’s throw away from her ex-husband.
Descending to the lower level, one is greeted by a space that feels even more boat-like.
A bed built into the floor, reminiscent of a captain’s bed on a ship, maximizes the available space.
The original carriage doors, once used for storing carriages, have been preserved, adding to the home’s historical charm.
The current owner, who once lived in the house full-time, speaks fondly of its quirks and challenges.
From the strategic placement of appliances in the kitchen to the Tetris-like puzzle of moving furniture, living in the Spite House requires creativity and adaptability.
Yet, the home’s charm and history make it all worthwhile.
The owner even contemplates returning to the house in the future, drawn by its unique allure.
The Montlake Spite House stands as a symbol of human determination, creativity, and resilience.
It’s a home that has witnessed nearly a century of history, and its walls hold stories of love, heartbreak, and the enduring human spirit.
For those fortunate enough to call it home, it offers a living experience unlike any other, a blend of history, architecture, and a touch of whimsy.
Check out the unique and “pie-shaped” home for yourself in the video below.
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