The Idea
There are condos and there are condos. Joel and Barbara Douglas saw the need for something different—a low-density development that would attract mature, mobile couples seeking a small-town experience without sacrificing big-city amenities. Blaine, Washington, presented itself as the ideal small town for their project, for its Northwest Washington State trading area, taking in the City of Bellingham and several other communities, offered a well-developed infrastructure, access to community facilities and recreational activities, convenient transportation hubs, and an absence of congestion and big-city bustle.
The Site
The key was to find the perfect site. One day several years ago, while driving around a quiet, beautiful bay—in Blaine it’s officially called Drayton Harbor but usually just referred to as “the bay”—the Douglases spotted a compact, virtual waterfront property occupied at the time by an old motel. The rather run-down motel buildings seemed unappreciative of the beautiful site they occupied. Would it not be better utilized by the condo development the Douglases envisaged? Indeed it would. And it was for sale.
The Realization
So Seascape was born. Acquiring the old motel site with its wonderful bay view at a fair price meant there need be no counting of pennies in design and construction. With his background in development and his experience in the building trades, Joel Douglas could realize the full potential of the site and ensure that the building and its individual residences reflected care and attention and pride.
The Seascape Inspiration
Criteria were set: these residences must satisfy the requirements of the most demanding buyers, ensuring that future owners need accept no compromises. The residences would be large and all on a single level. Each would have a charming view of the bay. They would be private, secure, sound-proofed, easy to heat, spacious, comfortable and attractive. The development would be small—just 21 units on three levels—but a variety of sizes and floor plans would be available. Every residence would have two full baths and one or more fireplaces. Owners would not have to share any facilities with their neighbors other than a small spa. As the photos show, the Douglases succeeded admirably.
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