Get closer to the water than current law allows

They don’t build houses like this anymore, or at least not ones this close to the water, but this custom home with a pyramidal roof or two was built in 1999 and has been grandfathered so it can ignore the modern set-back requirements. That means the 2,430 square foot house gets to sit close enough to the water to see into the rocky shoreline cove. Say hello to your new neighbors, the starfish and seals. Such sites command a premium price. This one is listed at $895,000, which at less than a million may be a bargain considering the rarity of the property.

Windermere

If you can bear to abandon the view for a few moments, take a tour inside where the views are only part of the appeal. Touches like recessed lighting are appreciated. It is the fireplace and mantel, however, that demonstrate the artistry apparent in features that could otherwise be dull. There’s nothing flashy about the graceful branches built into the fireplace screen or the wood and tile mantel, but they are both dressed for the space.

Windermere

In the kitchen you can find a oven that can’t be called an appliance. It probably doesn’t require electricity. A wood-fired pizza oven occupies one corner of the room. Soapstone counters, extra sinks, an island cooktop and work surface all may appeal to foodies, but a wood-fired oven is special and can cook more than flat breads with sauce and cheese. Unless, that is, you don’t want to sully it with roasts and other breads.

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Other corner offices will have a tough time competing with this one’s view. Handy if you want inspiration from nature, or something to stare at that isn’t a computer screen.

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A studio with angled skylights gives you a place to express those inspirations, too.

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The three bedrooms have many of the same features, and include window benches for reading. At least one of the two and a half baths escalates the level of ornamentation, just for a bit of escapism, possibly

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The expansive patio is easiest to appreciate in the summer, or when the whales swim by. Why stay indoors if you’ve going to live that close to nature?

• 1394 Foster Point Rd, Orcas Island [Windermere]