It’s time for another drive-by!
A few weeks after my last walk through Seattle’s Magnolia neighborhood, my daughter Courtney and I returned to take more photos of the charming homes and details that make this area so lovely.
Quick disclaimer:
I’m not a stalker. I don’t peek into windows (except in jest). I simply enjoy photographing architecture and sharing the beauty of these houses. In past posts, many homeowners have even reached out to thank me.
We parked, grabbed our phones and set off on foot to capture interesting details, rounded doors, color choices and the views that Magnolia is known for.
This house was near our starting point. I’m a sucker for rounded doors and that red one is especially inviting. The home steps up three stories in the back and the siding gives it a classic, shingled look.
This is the house that drew me back to Magnolia. The right side of the property frames a mountain view, and beyond that the home looks out over Puget Sound and Seattle. It’s a dramatic setting.
Even the side elevation is stunning — the proportions, shingles and the placement of windows make it feel timeless.
From the front the house opens to sweeping views of mountains, the city and water. Standing there, my daughter and I decided this street would be perfect for riding bikes — a bike-by would be ideal for future photo hunts.
Across the side street a handsome colonial-style home added to the block’s architectural variety.
We crossed toward a small brick house that was for sale. The rear of the property looks directly out on the water, with boats and mountain views visible from the backyard — an enviable panorama.
The brickwork and window details caught my eye. I kept imagining the interior and the view from those windows.
There were gates and fences that mark these properties, understandably private, but the design often lets you glimpse inside. I admit I thought about what I might say if someone caught me admiring the house — a playful fib about searching for a home in the neighborhood or an embarrassed “oops, sorry, I got lost.”
I probably looked rather earnest standing at the gate, measuring how at home I would feel pulling into that driveway. But I respected the property lines and kept walking.
As we continued around to the front, I appreciated fences that allow a view in — they satisfy curiosity without invading privacy. On one property the front gate was slightly ajar, which made me do a double-take. Courtney immediately warned me with a sharp “No, Mom,” and I restrained myself. Better to admire from the sidewalk.
We headed back to the car after a pleasant few hours of wandering, taking pictures and enjoying Magnolia’s mix of architectural charm and spectacular views. Another successful neighborhood stroll.
If you live here, feel free to say hello.