Classic Ralph Anderson midcentury home asks $1.4 million in Burien

Ralph Anderson is an iconic Northwest architect, best-known in his day for revitalizing Pioneer Square—although he’s gained more of a cult following for his collection of Northwest homes that frame the world around them, evolving from designing some of the area’s most stunning midcentury architecture to becoming a trailblazer for the Northwest Contemporary style.

This four-bedroom, four-bathroom Burien home bounded by Seahurst Park and Salmon Creek Ravine Park was (mostly) built in 1958, solidly in his midcentury stride, but with hints of what would become his signature style. Bright wood-grain finishes work along with giant window banks to bring the natural world inside the home. An offbeat floorplan departs from the minimalism of the midcentury ethos, though, with common areas wrapping around multiple courtyards.

In classic Anderson style, the outdoor areas are carefully curated, and, at least from the outside, the construction takes a backseat to the setting. The architect was drawn to woodsy backdrops and hillside water views, and this has an abundance of both spread out over two lots: one with the home, the other, the one closer to the water to preserve those views, dense with trees.

An addition to the home came after Anderson, which includes a garage, master suite, and a second living room, but stay relatively minimalist to preserve the aesthetic.

13017 Shorewood Drive SW is listed for $1.4 million through Windermere.