Five acres of views and whimsy on Orcas Island

Combine island living, artistic surroundings, and a dash of playfulness and get this elaborate Orcas home listed for $949,000, a surprise considering everything that’s put into it.

It wasn’t enough to have a massive stone fireplace that rises through a cathedral ceiling; a carved tree embraces it. Organically-curved wood visually grounds it. Someone thought this through and had the resources to build it.

A moderate bow to the grand array of arched windows moves the living room out and into the view of the San Juan Islands, the Salish Sea, and the forests. Brazilian walnut floors gleam.

Country style dining and cooking areas are made distinctive with exposed beams, a bold paint scheme in the dining room, and rustic cabinets in the kitchen. Stainless steel and granite make their now-traditional appearance.

Even the bathrooms have an artistic, fun quality. One shower wall is graced with an etched glass pond scene featuring two great blue herons. Another bathroom plays with history by using an old-style toilet, the kind where the tank is far overhead and operated by tugging a handle on a chain.

Throughout the 2,666-square-foot house, including in at least two of the three bedrooms, light is colored and filtered through stained glass windows. The tile work is fun, too. Evidently, there’s even room for a pool table by a sitting area.

Five acres provides plenty of places for more places. A full guest studio is handy, as are the shop and greenhouse.

Such a beautiful, natural setting encourages living outdoors. A series of decks creates its own panorama of views and sitting areas. At least one deck sits in the shade for when full sun is just a bit too much. A seasonal stream, pond, and versatile tent platform mean camping is as close as a walk across the yard.

• 94 Parker Reef Rd, Orcas Island [Estately]
• 94 Parker Reef Rd, Orcas Island [Orcas Island Realty]