Andrews Bay – Anchoring and Partying

Mount Rainier and Andrews Bay from the I-90 Bridge

Paul Allen’s estate is across a narrow part of the Lake from Seattle’s Seward Park. From many lake locations the park appears to be an island but it is connected to the mainland by a narrow isthmus. The park is 300 acres of old growth forest with eagles’ nests, a 2.4 mile biking and walking trail circumventing the park, interior trails, numerous picnicking and play areas, an amphitheater, a native plant garden and an art studio.

Andrews Bay is the only place in Lake Washington that is authorized (by the government agencies that patrol the lake) for overnight anchoring. The Bay is north of the isthmus and well protected. The floating bridges reduce the waves from the summer’s prevailing winds which are light and from the north. The park’s peninsula protects the bay during the days and nights when the weather is less than perfect and winds and waves come from the southwest.

Andrews Bay is a popular spot for anchoring, swimming in 75° fresh water, having boat parties and spending the nights on summer weekends. It reminds me of my sailing days in Southern California and mooring in Catalina’s harbors and bays. Seward Park has a rocky beach on the north side of the isthmus (south end of Andrews Bay) where boaters can beach their dinghies and go ashore to enjoy the beauty and activities of the park. The Bay is also known as “Cocktail Cove” and “Party Bay.” It has its own “Andrews Bay Yacht Club.” You can go the link and, if you are a Facebook member, click “like” and become a member.

(This is the fifth chapter [go to next chapter] of our “Lake Washington Cruising” article. The chapters are being posted in reverse order. When all chapters are posted they will be in order in this blog with the first chapter at the top. I will be posting approximately one chapter per week. You can read and print an abbreviated pdf version of the entire article.)

Cruising South Lake Washington

This area of Lake Washington includes the waterfront of Seattle’s Seward Park and Rainier Valley, unincorporated Bryn Mawr-Skyway, southwest Mercer Island and Renton. The area’s most notable mansions are on Mercer Island and include Paul Allen’s campus/compound and sports stars’, Mike Holmgren’s and Michael Chang’s, former homes. The previous 2/25/12 post has more information on these homes. The 2/23/12 post has a viewing guide for Paul Allen’s campus/compound. The 2/21/12 post has information on some of the other more notable homes. Information on Seward Park and Andrews Bay are in the above post.

There is a sunken forest between the southeast corner of Seward Park and Paul Allen’s place on Mercer Island. These ancient underwater forests were created 1,000 to 3,000 years ago by landslides. The tops of the trees are 30 to 60 feet below the surface.

View of Mercer Island in the fall from south Lake Washington

The south end of Lake Washington has the feel of a separate 1.5 by 3/4 miles lake. It is popular for sailing, water skiing, wake boarding and tubing. There are beautiful views of Mount Rainier.

Southwest Waterfront and Mount Rainier

The inland areas near the waterfront in Rainier Valley and Bryn Mawr-Skyway on southwest Lake Washington are some of the poorest in the area. The waterfront homes are less expensive than other areas on Lake Washington. The homes are closer together and to the water compared to the mansions in LW 130 Homes. The western shore south of Seward Park has the $3 million dollar home of Seattle’s famous welfare-recipient waterfront-resident that was featured in a Seattle Mansions post. The southern shoreline of homes has the look and feel of many ocean-beach communities. Parties on the waterfront, decks and docks are common.

The Renton Airport and the Cedar River at the southern end of the lake are the boundary between Bryn Mawr-Skyway and Renton. The Cedar River and the Sammamish River at the north end are the main tributaries for Lake Washington. Before the locks and ship canals where built the lake was 9 to 12 feet higher and water from the lake flowed out (where the Cedar River now flows in) to the Duwamish River.

Coulon Park (full name “Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park”) is a popular boaters’ launch and day visit stop. With eight launch lanes, it is the largest boat launch site on the lake. The small harbor has protected day moorage for about 50 boats. The park is 57 acres with an excellent lake swimming and beach area, picnic grounds and shelters, play fields and courts, etc. Ivars and Kidd Valley food concessions are adjacent to the docks.

(This is the sixth chapter [go to next chapter] of our “Lake Washington Cruising” article. The chapters are being posted in reverse order. When all chapters are posted they will be in order in this blog with the first chapter at the top. I will be posting approximately one chapter per week. You can read and print an abbreviated pdf version of the entire article.)

Mercer Island West – Central - Mansions

North to South

“The Boulevard Place Mansion” sold 11/21/12 for $13.3 million. This property was featured in Seattle Mansions posts on 4/15/12, 8/31/11 and 10/21/10. It was listed for sale at $28.8 million in 2010, lowered to $19 million in 2011 and an auction on 8/30/11 failed to attract the minimum bid of $15.5 million. The mansion was listed by Kris Robbs, Ewing & Clark, “Unique property takes advantage of 1.6 acre, street to Lake prize. Two-inch limestone floors extend from entry, spill down terrace around the in-ground pool & hot tub. Impressive 164' westside waterfront ready for speed boat, Seadoos & yacht. Soaring ceilings, balcony, warm wood office & leaded glass doors, with state-of-the-art theater & 9.1 surround. Two outdoor Viking BBQ complement gourmet kitchen. Escape to romantic master suite, spa bath with aroma/chroma therapy So many divine finishing details!” The living area is 13,636 sq ft. The sellers were David and Becky Sandwith and the buyer was a trust. David, his parents and siblings sold Kent based Mikron Industries, a manufacturer of high tech window components, for $205 million to Quanex Corporation in 2004.

This is the former home of Jim Zorn of the Seattle Seahawks. He had this home custom built and lived here while he was quarterbacking the team from 1976-1984. Locals call this the “gingerbread house.” He was the star quarterback for the expansion NFL Seattle Seahawks’ first seven seasons. During his Seahawk reign he teamed with Hall of Fame receiver Steve Largent. Largent was the first inducted into the Seahawk “Ring of Honor” in 1989 and Zorn was the second in 1991. The property was purchased for $1.3 million in 1988 from Zorn by Dr. Richard T. and Kathleen Sutcliff. Dr. Sutcliff is a former Seattle eye surgeon and registered sex offender (Seattle Times 7/20/05). The mansion has 5,290 sq ft on 0.5 acres with 195 feet of waterfront.

This mansion was sold 10/24/11 for $6.1 million. It was listed for $6.8 million by Betsy Terry, Ewing & Clark: “Glorious 210 feet of prime no bank Lake Washington Shoreline w/ 200 degree western panorama also looks down &up lake. Gorgeous outlook onto Seward Park. 41000 sf [0.9 acres] lot. Large house [8,170 sq ft] 99% remodeled in 1982 is ready for your personal touches or a fantastic site. Grand rooms, fine floor plan, tall ceilings. Huge and luxurious Master suite. Swimming pool. Ample parking incl carport and garage. covered moorage. One of the most private and wonderful parcels on MI!.Poss. Seller financing!” This property was sold by Ka Hung Lau to Lepage Lake House LLC whose agent is listed as Matthew J. Lepage. He is the COB of Renton based American Fast Freight and Hawaiian Ocean Transport. The mansion was demolished June 2012.

This mansion was listed this week (early 2013) for $10.9 million by Wendy Lister and Kirsten Paulsen, CBBain: “A Vassos Demetriou Tour de Force. An unforgettable treasure of 178' of pristine waterfront on a coveted double lot with gated entry. A dramatic, yet elegant floor plan awaits you at this Contemporary Masterpiece that will impress the most sophisticated home aficionados. For the first time available on the market, this Custom home offers premium finish work & a symphony of entertaining spaces that embrace the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. All 5 bedrooms are en suite. Yachts are welcome.” This property is owned by Jerry D. and Angelina Burtenshaw. Jerry is in charge of Alpine-Burtco, an international catering and concessions company and the concessionaire for Safeco Field (Mariners), the Tacoma Dome and the former Kingdome. The mansion is 9,790 sq ft on 0.9 acres with 178 feet of waterfront. More information is in a 4/19/13 Seattle Mansions post.

This mansion was listed at $5.3 million in 2011, lowered to $4.9 million in 2012 and $4.4 million in early 2013. It is listed by Larry Williams, John L Scott. From the listing: “The centerpiece of Mercer Island's Forest Avenue, the premiere waterfront on the West side. Spectacular finish level. Exacting standards. A focus on longevity. Design balances entertainment, casual living. Four large bedrooms, spacious master suite, paneled retreat den. Bar, game room and spa. Expansive dock. Server room provides unlimited security, audio, video, communications flexibility. Equally impressive power management. Radiant heat, air conditioned. Elevator. The Villa on Forest.” The mansion has 7,090 sq ft on .6 acres with 74 feet of waterfront. The property is owned by N. Bert Loosmore. He was a Co-founder (in 1993 while an engineering student at Stanford) of NJ based I.D. Systems. The international company provides vehicle management and tracking systems. He is an ecology and environmental management professor at Bainbridge Graduate Institute.

The listing price was reduced in early 2012 from $5.0 million to $4.8 million and taken off the market in late 2012. This property, with 4.25 acres, is the second largest (to Paul Allen) waterfront estate on Mercer Island. It has 181 feet of waterfront and three buildings with 4,620 sq ft. The home was listed by Kris Robbs & Jane Powers, Ewing & Clark: “Majestic forested retreat is largest privately held property on MI complete w/181 ft of no-bank, west facing wft & dock. The tranquil setting with views of Seattle & Seward Park, is a refuge from City life and a return to Old MI. Water fowl, eagles, and marine activity, rolling lawn and well tended gardens frame the property. Owner will act as steward for this special property which includes a pioneer cottage and renovated caboose! Architecturally Significant home worthy of remodel. A Sanctuary!” The property is owned by Barbara L. Davidson.

This modern mansion is owned by Joseph and Judy Schocken and is 5,400 sq ft on 0.87 acres with 200 feet of waterfront and a private beach. President Obama selected Joseph Schocken from Mercer Island as an advisor for the Administration’s JOBS Act signed into law in April 2012 (5/24/12 Seattle Mansions post). Schocken attended the Rose Garden bill-signing ceremony. Joseph is considered to be one of the Democratic Party elite. He and his wife, Judy, have raised millions of dollars for the Democratic Party. This includes fundraisers at their beautiful Mercer Island waterfront mansion. They have personally donated close to a million dollars over the years. They have spent weekends on Nantucket with John and Teresa Heinz Kerry. He is a member of the Democratic National Committee (DNC) and attends dinners with the Committee’s high-level National Advisory Board. Joseph is president and founder (1987) of Broadmark Capital, LLC, a prominent Seattle investment bank.

(Updated 4/20/13)

Page numbers refer to Lake Washington 130 Homes

Click on Mercer Island West - North - Mansions for mansions to the north.

Click on Paul Allen for his compound to the south.

Click on Mercer Island Southwest - Mansions for more mansions to the south.

Paul Allen – Viewing Mercer Island Campus

The following is a guide to Paul Allen’s 9.6 acre multi-mansion estate/campus/compound on Mercer Island.

A – 4 buildings ~200 ft from water: 10,680 sq ft main building with gym and 2 indoor tennis courts; 5,220, 4,210, and 2,050 sq ft guest houses; and 12+ car garages for an antique and race car museum and guest parking.
B – Deceased Mother’s former house, ~50 feet from water, 11,300 sq ft plus 7 car garage.
C – Catamaran, Dragonfly, to drag-and-fly helicopters.
D – Main house including attached indoor pool and lakefront building to the north and wood garden/lakefront house to the south, 9,890 sq ft.
E– Concert hall theater and guest facilities, 11,560 sq ft.
F – 1,750 sq ft house with 100 ft waterfront acquired in 2006 for $5.2 million.
The campus is on pages 64 and 65 in Lake Washington 130 Homes.

Mercer Island Southwest - Mansions

North to South

This is the home of Marty and Sharon Lott. A major expansion of this Mercer Island home was completed over the last three years. It now has a total of 12,310 sq ft. The property is 1.8 acres with 150 feet of waterfront. The Advertising Specialty Institute^® named Marty Lott “2011 Person of the Year.” He and this home were featured in a 2/22/12 Seattle Mansions post. Marty is the founder and president of Issaquah based SanMar. The company is a leading supplier of apparel and accessories. The company is an award-winning supplier of 14 retail, private label and mill brands. It supplies apparel and accessories to screen printers, embroiderers, promotional products distributors, athletic dealers, industrial launderers, etc. SanMar is the exclusive distributor of Nike Golf, OGIO®, New Era® and other name brands.

This mansion is a 2012 listing for $7.3. From the listing by Tere and David Foster, Windermere “A timeless Northwest waterfront retreat by Reid Morgan on Mercer Island. Sited on 118 ft of Lake Washington waterfront, soaring ceilings & walls of windows frame views. Warm beams anchor clean lines. Careful lighting accentuates your finest art collection. Over 6000 sq ft of open spaces. Watch the sun set from your own private deck off the master suite. Spend summers on the lakeside patio featuring a spa & gentle steps to the water. Expansive lawns. Private dock. Your own luxurious escape.” The property is 0.5 acres. It is owned by Walter E. Schoenfeld. He is the former CEO of Seattle based Vans Inc. He also a former General Partner and Owner of the Seattle Mariners and was a Director and Vice President of the Seattle SuperSonics. This property is adjacent to (north of) the former home of Michael Chang on page 66 and the next paragraph.

This is the former home of Hall of Fame tennis star Michael Chang. He holds the record for the youngest male to win a Grand Slam singles tennis tournament. He was seventeen in 1989 when he won the French Open. He sold this mansion in 2008 for $10 million to Stephen S. and Christina Bezos Poore. Christina is Jeff Bezos’ (Amazon Founder’s) sister. Steve and Christina are directors of the Bezos Family Foundation. The Foundation was established by Jeff and Christina’s parents, Jackie and Mike Bezos. The Foundation strongly supports youth-education and health-care programs. Steve has also been active as a donor and board member of the Boys and Girls Clubs of King County and Mercer Island. The mansion has 6,620 sq ft of living area on 0.73 acres with 237 feet of waterfront and on page 66 in LW 130 Homes.

A major expansion of this home was completed over the last three years. It now has a total of 7,370 sq ft. The property is 1.6 acres with 169 feet of waterfront. The home is owned by Paul Maritz. He was with Microsoft from 1986 to 2000. His last position was executive vice president of the Platforms Strategy and Developer Group. He was part of the 5-person executive management team and, according to Wikipedia, was the third-ranking executive behind Bill Gates and Steve Ballmer. He was responsible for most of Microsoft's desktop and server software, including Windows and Internet Explorer. He is now CEO of Silicon Valley based VMware Corporation and was the Silicon Valley Business Journal's 2011 Executive of the Year. More information is in a 2/21/12 Seattle Mansions post.

This is the former home of Mike and Kathy Holmgren. They sold the home in 2008 for $3.7 million to Frank C. and Eileen Ellefsen. Mike was head coach of the Seattle Seahawks from 1999 to 2008. During his reign the Seahawks had 86 wins and 74 losses, 5 division championships and one NFC championship, losing to Pittsburg in Super Bowl XL. He was formerly the head coach of the Green Bay Packers and led them to the Super Bowl championship in 1997. Frank is a co-owner (with Dave Wells) of Puget Sound based Island Tug and Barge. The company, with 13 vessels, is a leader in PNW ship towing, vessel assist and marine construction support. In early 2013 the Ellefsens moved to Mercer Island East Channel (LWC post) and listed this home for $3.9 million. The listing agent is Joan Bayley, Winderemere: “Resort style living! 96 ft of western lowbank wtrfrnt w/a sprawling beach area, newly built yachtsman's dock, fabulous outdoor BBQ space, salt water spa, waterside cabana & a lake level kitchenette perfect for entertaining. State of the art commercial grade ktchn. Dreamy main floor master. Spacious living/dining/family/bonus rms. Detached 2 bdrm guest house. Heated shop w/1/2 bth. Sauna. Solar shades/radiant heat. Gorgeous park-like grounds. Plans ready for permit available for additional level.” This home has 3,670 sq ft on 1.40 acres with 96 feet of waterfront and is on page 67 in LW 130 Homes.

(Updated 4/20/13)

Page numbers refer to Lake Washington 130 Homes

Click on Paul Allen for his compound to the north.

Click on Mercer Island West – Central - Mansions for more mansions to the north.

Click on Mercer Island East Channel South - Mansions for mansions to the east.

Cruising The East Channel – East Mercer Island and Southwest Bellevue

Lake Washington

Page numbers on the map refer to Lake Washington 130 Homes. This area covers pages 68 to 80.

This Lake Washington area east of Mercer Island is “The East Channel.” Some of the area’s most notable mansions include “Southpointe,” the home of the “Bella Rosa” yacht, a mansion barged from Madison Park in the 1940s, and homes in the “Venice of Lake Washington.” The previous 2/16/12 post has more information on these and other homes.

The landmark property at the southern tip of Mercer Island is appropriately known as “Southpointe.” From here there are fabulous views of the lake and Mount Rainier.

Around the point and northeast are the Mercer Island Beach Club and the 9 acre Clarke Beach Park. The 2 acre Beach Club is a member-owned private club and offers members tennis, beach and pool swimming, a clubhouse for club and private parties and boat moorage. The park offers picnicking, fishing and swimming.

Across the channel in Renton is the 19 acre Seahawks headquarters and practice facility which opened in 2008. The facility is state-of-the-art and considered one the NFL’s top 3 team facilities. It has one indoor and four outdoor full-size football fields plus administrative offices, gyms, rooms for lockers, training, dining and conferences and a 146-seat auditorium. The buildings have 113,000 square feet.

The I-90 East Channel Bridge connects Mercer Island to Bellevue. The first bridge here was completed in 1923 and provided the first road off the island. Estates were soon established on the east side of Mercer Island. The first bridge was torn down and one span of the current bridge was built in 1940. The second span was opened in 1992 as part of the I-90 system.

South of the bridge is on the east side of the channel is the mouth of Kelsey Creek and Mercer Slough. The creek is the main tributary to Lake Washington between the 520 Bridge and the south end of the lake. Mercer Slough Park adjacent to the lake is about 300 acres and the largest natural wetland on Lake Washington. Canoes and kayaks for exploring the slough can be rented at Enatai Beach Park under the I-90 bridge.

South of the Kelsey Creek is Newport Shores, “The Venice of Lake Washington.” To the immediate north of the bridge is Beaux Arts Village. It is classified as a town and, with a population of 300, is the smallest municipal jurisdiction in King County. It was founded in 1908 as an artists’ colony and is now a very affluent area.

Luther Burbank Park is on the northeast end of Mercer Island with spectacular views of Lake Washington. It is 77 acres with 4,000 feet of waterfront. There is ample free day moorage at park’s docks. Park amenities include a large children’s play area, an off-leash dog area, group picnic areas, tennis courts, a public boat dock and fishing pier, a swimming beach with lifeguard and an amphitheater.

(This is the seventh chapter [go to next chapter] of our “Lake Washington Cruising” article. The chapters are being posted in reverse order. When all chapters are posted they will be in order in this blog with the first chapter at the top. I will be posting approximately one chapter per week. You can read and print an abbreviated pdf version of the entire article.)

President Obama at Brotmans 2/17/12

President Obama has returned to the Brotmans for a fundraising brunch today, February 17, 2012. This event was first reported in the Seattle Times in an Associated Press article on February 1 and there was a follow-up article today. The $17,900 per plate brunch for 65 people is at the mansion of Jeff and Susan Brotman. The funds will be used for Obama’s reelection campaign and to support the Democratic National Committee. The Brotmans previously hosted a $7,500 per plate Democratic fundraising lunch with Michelle Obama on October 25, 2010. The mansion is in the exclusive cove of Medina that includes Nathan Myhrvold’s T-Rex house, Charles Simonyi’s Window 2000 house and Gary Reed’s former estate. The mansion is on page 98 in Lake Washington 130 Homes.

Cruising and boating this area is in earlier LW Cruising posts (5/8/11 and 5/4/11).

Jeff is the Chairman and co-founder of Costco. The mansion, as reported in the New York Times, is known as “Their Art House” that includes monumental pieces by Richard Serra and James Turrell. The house was designed by Olson Sundberg Kundig Allen Architects who are known for designing art-galleries-cum-residences. The louvers on the front (water side) and roof of the house adjust to provide the optimum natural light on the extensive art collection.

Mercer Island East Channel South - Mansions

South to North

The southern tip of Mercer Island, “Southpointe,” is the mansion of Marc A. and Sally Onetto. Marc is Sr. VP Worldwide Operations for Amazon. They purchased the estate 7/3/2007 for $5.6 million extensively renovated and upgraded it in early 2009. The home is 5,150 sq ft on .63 acres with 147 feet of waterfront.

Looking east across the lake in Renton is the 19 acre Seahawks headquarters and practice facility which opened in 2008. The facility is state-of-the-art and considered one the NFL’s top 3 team facilities.  It has one indoor and four outdoor full-size football fields plus administrative offices, gyms, rooms for lockers, training, dining and conferences and a 146-seat auditorium. The buildings have 113,000 square feet.

This mansion was listed for $6.9 million in 2011, $6.2 million in early 2012 and $5.9 million in late 2012. It is listed by Wendy and Kathryn Lister, CBBain. From the Listing: “The power of beauty! . . . Full, delightful connected coach house. Extraordinary 1397sf covered boathouse area . . .  Pillars rise up; dark beams lend authority . . . The stunning stone kitchen . . . Four substantial en suite bedrooms including the Master Suite with his and hers salon baths. . . . Downstairs, a mélange of living and fun. . . 500 bottle wine cellar; 2 kitchenettes  . . . The grounds anchor the home . . . simply magnificent.” The estate has the 8,400 sq ft mansion on 0.62 acres with 95 feet of waterfront, 5 bedrooms and 6.25 baths. This is the mansion of Richard Ferry, retired Founder Chairman of Korn/Ferry International. Korn/Ferry is the largest and regarded as one of the most prestigious international executive search firms. Mr. Ferry co-founded Korn/Ferry with Lester Korn in 1969. Mr. Ferry retired in 2001 and moved from Los Angeles to Mercer Island because of his love for the Pacific Northwest. He purchased this lot and its old home for $1.6 million in 1999 and built this mansion in 2003.

The home was listed at $6.8 million early 2012 and recently was lowered to $6.3 million. It is listed by Gigi Forbes, Windermere. From the Listing: “This stunning residence is a creation of the finest materials, unparalleled craftsmanship and sophisticated design. With nearly 5,500 sq ft, this 4 BR, 4.5 bath home is a masterpiece of elegant and uncompromised modern living. The natural feel of warm, exotic woods and natural stones fused with the artistry of custom glass will just take your breath away. Every view and every detail is an experience that will keep you inspired and joyful in spending time in your home. Let this be your retreat.” The property is 0.6 acres with 65 ft of waterfront. The property is owned by Richard and Rick Soltys Huizinga. The Huizingas are software developers for the mobile and gaming industries.

This mansion was listed for $5.0 million by Kathy Beckes, CB Danforth. : “Premier lakefront luxury estate on 90 feet on flat no-bank waterfront. An Exceptional home designed for exclusive entertaing. This newly completed showpiece offers 6,000 square feet of dazzing finishes and superior craftsmanship. This stately home boasts two private master suites. Open the expansive lakeside Nana walls and experience the pleasures of indoor/outdoor living. Walk the exquisitely landscaped level grounds. Water feature with bronze sculpture, huge play yard. Level access!” This property was sold 10/26/10 by Gerald and Jodi Kent to Hui Liu and Yu Hou.

This is the most spectacular mansion on Mercer Island’s eastside. It is owned by Martin and Janet Rosa. He is a retired Bellevue dentist and Las Vegas property investor. The couple purchased this lot and its old home for $2.4 million in 1993 and built this home in 1995. The mansion is 11,400 sq ft on 1.9 acres with 260 feet of waterfront. The 70 ft yacht, The Bella Rosa, is often docked here when it is not in Alaska or other destinations.

This landmark historic mansion sold for $5.3 million in December 2012. It was listed for $8.0 million in 2011, taken off the market later in the year and relisted in 2012 for $6.8 million. From the listing by Bob Bennion and Mary Snyder, Windermere “Recently refurbished estate property on 2.96 acres with lovely grounds, 175ft no-bank waterfront, and lake and mountain views. Stately 1934 Colonial designed by Edwin Ivey offers gracious interiors with exquisite millwork and hardwood floors. Entry with curved staircase; library; study; granite kitchen; paneled family room; officesuite; 5 bdr and 7+ bth, including gorgeous master suite & waterfront guesthouse; 3 fireplaces. Sweeping lawns, mature plantings; dock; 4-car garage.” The sellers were David R. and April Humphrey, the founders of Seattle based ILD Global. The buyers were Tso Ling and Shiang Wen Su. Tso Ling Su is the owner of Bellevue based Su Development, an apartment building developer. This 7,400 sq ft mansion was built in 1934 in Seattle’s Madison Park and cut in three pieces and barged to Mercer Island in the 1940s. An article about the mansion and this sale are in a 4/5/13 Seattle Mansions Blog.

This mansion was listed in early 2012 when it was under construction at $5.8 million and later in the year lowered to $5.5 million. It is currently listed for $6 million by Alex Jobe, Keller Williams: “Not a single detail was overlooked as this new construction 6,279 sf home boasts timeless craftsman flair on a very prvt fncd lot w/stunning views of Lk Wash & Mt Rainier. Entertainer's floor plan unfolds w/5 bdrms, 8 baths, gourmet kitchen, great rm, formal dining rm, library & media rm. Wine closet with 175-bottle capacity. Luxurious master suite. Library has wet bar & flr-to-clng cherry cab's. Entire home is pre-wired for sound sys. Covered patio w/radiant heat. 122-foot dock. 3 car garage.” The property is owned by Ferncroft LLC whose manager is Frederic Weiss, CEO of The Weiss Company, a commercial real estate developer. The home is 6,279 sq ft on 0.38 acres with 114 feet of waterfront.

Mansions continue with Newport Shores - Mansions.

(Post revised 4/7/13)

Newport Shores - Mansions

North to South

See Seattle Mansions 2/15/12 post

“Newport Shores – The Venice of Lake Washington.”

This mansion was listed in early 2012 for $6.2 million and taken off the market in late 2012. It was listed by Rondi Egenes and Steven Gorecki, Winderemere: “A Slice of Italy on the shores of Lake Washington. In the creation of this Italianate Villa no expense was spared. Substantially constructed and extremely well crafted, the details are almost limitless. The scale is spectacular. The home is designed to accommodate multi-generational living with 4 en suite bedrooms as well as separate apartment on the main floor. Casual and formal spaces both indoors and out combine to set the stage for everyday living as well as entertaining on a grand scale.” The home is currently owned by Richard R. Devenuti. He was with Microsoft from 1987 to early 2007 when he retired from the company and joined Massachusetts based EMC Corporation where he is a division president. The mansion has 7,560 sq ft on .5 acres with 110 feet of waterfront.

This home was sold 4/4/10. The listing agent was Larry Williams of John L. Scott. From the listing: “Newport Shores premiere waterfront property. Custom, spectacular Jeff Loveless designed 7300 sq ft mansion captures sun rays horizon to horizon. Light filled grand entry hall and main living. Hand crafted clear fir and oak timbers of grand proportions. Spa and cabana adjacent to pool and expansive lawns. Seaplane lift. Ample moorage. Garages for eight.  Designed to fully experience 1.17 acres and 210′ of waterfront.” The home was sold by David and Kathleen Bauer to Michael A. and Pamela King.

This mansion was listed $5.0 million in 2011, $4.7 million in early 2012, $4.5 million in mid 2012 and $4.3 million in early 2013. From the listing by Tere and David Foster, Windermere:. “Placed on .69 of an acre with 115 ft of waterfront, a storybook setting awaits. Inspired by the classic style of an East Coast traditional, this residence hosts wonderful spaces. Formal living and dining rooms draw in views of the grounds and waterfront. The expansive kitchen adjoins to the family room. The main level master overlooks the pool and grounds. Upstairs find an office with a view, bathroom and guest room pleasantly separated for privacy. Welcome to life in Newport Shores.” The mansion has 7,360 sq ft and is 9 homes south of the mansion on page 73. The mansion is owned by John and Christi Ludwig. John is a founding partner of Bellevue and Palo Alto CA based Ignition Partners, a venture capital firm. He is a former Microsoft executive.

Mansions continue to the northwest with Mercer Island East Channel North - Mansions.

(Revised 4/7/13)

Mercer Island East Channel North - Mansions

South to North

This mansion was sold March 2013 for $5.7 million. It was listed for $6.3 million by Joan Bayley, Winderemere “At last the estate you've been looking for has just been completed! Huge flat lawn w/ sandy beach access,1+acre w/ 150 ft of sparkling wtfrnt. The significant stone & shingled exterior, boxed beamed ceilings, oversized moldings & rustic wood accents exude an old world elegance of an era gone by. Wide open great room concept. Professionally proportioned kitchen & butlers pantry. Entertainers deck w/ built-in firepit. Wood paneled den, theater rm, wine cellar. Large dock w/ 3 boat slips & lift.” The home is 6,338 sq ft on 1.0 acres with 150 feet of waterfront. It was sold by Kurt Dammier, the builder. It was purchased by Frank C. and Eileen Ellefsen who also own the former home of Mike and Kathy Holmgren on West Mercer (MI-SW Homes). Frank is a co-owner (with Dave Wells) of Puget Sound based Island Tug and Barge. The company, with 13 vessels, is a leader in PNW ship towing, vessel assist and marine construction support.

This is the former home of basketball star Rashard Lewis. He started his NBA career with the Seattle SuperSonics in 1998 and was one of their stars through the 2006-07 season. The home was sold 10/16/09 for $3.4 million. The mansion is 7,000 sq ft on 0.4 acres with 85 ft of waterfront.

This is the home of Frank A. Jr. and Charlene Blethen. Frank is the Publisher and CEO of The Seattle Times. Frank’s great grandfather, Alden J. Blethen, founded The Seattle Times in 1896 and Frank is the fourth generation of family leadership. Frank became Publisher in 1985. Frank’s son, Ryan Blethen, is Director of New Product Strategies and Associate Publisher. Frank’s cousin’s, Robert C. Blethen’s, former mansion in the Bellevue Meydenbauer Bay East - Mansions post. The home is 3,900 sq ft on 0.6 acres with 112 ft of waterfront.

This is the home of Jeffrey I. and Judith Greenstein. Jeffrey was the Chief Executive of Quellos Group, a Seattle investment firm. In 2011 he and his partner, Charles Wilk, were each sentenced to four years and two months of prison. They were found guilty of recruiting wealthy clients to execute one the largest tax-evasion scams in U.S. history involving $240 million of evaded taxes in one year. A Seattle Mansions blog post has more information. The mansion is 9,150 sq ft on 1.0 acres with 100 feet of waterfront.

Mercer Island teardown – 2.4 acres with large covered dock

A north end Mercer Island property was listed at $7.0 million and sold in the same month (6/27/11) for $6.8 million. The listing (Kathy Beckes, CB Danforth) stated: “North End Mercer Island, 2.4 ACRES, 150' No Bank Waterfront, Mesmerizing views . . . your own soccer field. Build your dream home, tennis court & swimming pool. No limits here! One-of-a-kind!” The property and sale were featured in the in a Seattle Mansions 1/5/11 post. The purchaser was listed as On the Rock 98040 LLC and the seller was Cordell J. Almond. Mr. Almond is a CPA, partner in the Hersman Serles Almond accounting and consulting firm and principal for Seidman Private Securities, LLC. The property consists of two parcels and is one of the largest low-bank, buildable properties on Mercer Island. The manager listed within the LLC is Scott Gibson. A Scott Gibson, along with other members of his family were the owners of Fatigue Technology, a former Tukwila based aerospace company.

This mansion is listed for $8 million by Scott Richards, Windermere. (No Realtor comments are currently included in the listing.) The mansion is 7,100 sq ft on 0.5 acres with 100 feet of waterfront. It is owned by James B. and Victoria V. Corcoran. He is CEO of UK based SAV Credit Limited. He was President of Retail Banking for Seattle based Washington Mutual from 2006 to mid 2008. The Corcorans purchased the property in 2007 for $6.7 million.

This is the home of Richard G. and Leslie West. Richard was Chairman and Managing Director of Seattle based Cruise West. The company was founded by this family in 1973 and specialized in small ship “up close, casual and personal” cruises. The line started with Alaska cruises and had expanded to numerous oceans, seas and rivers with nine 52 to 102 passenger ships. It went bankrupt in 2010. At the time it was the largest American-owned cruise line. The mansion is 9,670 sq ft on 0.64 acres with 100 feet of waterfront.

This mansion was listed for $5.3 million in 2012 and was lowered to $5.1 million in January 2013. It is also offered for $4.3 million without the 0.35 acre lot behind it. It is listed by Tere and David Foster, Windermere: “NORTH END Waterfront. Resting gently on a level lot w/ sandy beach & deep water moorage, this home offers expansive spaces w/ carefully crafted timeless details. Sunlight showers every space as you enjoy views of Lake Washington and the Bay. Entertaining is effortless in the dream kitchen with Dacor appliances, slab granite. A hand honed Oak staircase guides you to the upper level to the luxurious master suite. Includes additional lot with sport court behind home.” The property is owned by Robin Melin, the former wife of David W. Melin. The home is 4,850 sq ft on 0.7 acres and shares 100 feet of waterfront and a dock for three boats with the the property behind it.

This property was listed at $6.4 million in 2012. It is listed by Jennifer Ruud-Johnson, Re/Max: “Mezmerizing Elegance meets the edge of a private cove offering 100ft of lakefrontage. Summertime fun found on flat green lawns & private 150ft dock can host lge yacht. 1/2 acre+ manicured grounds boast privacy from all sides, boat-lift for your run-about, pool, hot-tub, luxury & class. Vast views to Meydenbauer & Bellevue-skyline. Exacting details, European chandeliers, French-flare, main flr master draws in picturesque views. Soaring ceilings, radiant heat, extensive parking. Truly a stunning property!” The property is owned by Douglas F. and Joan M. Ruud. Douglas is a Seattle based attorney. The mansion is 5,700 sq ft on 0.56 acres with 100 ft of waterfront.

(Updated 4/9/13)

Click on Bellevue Meydenbauer Bay East - Mansions for mansions to the northeast.

Click on Newport Shores - Mansions for mansions to the southeast.

Click on Mercer Island East Channel South - Mansions for mansions to the south.