Mercer Island, WA July 2023

ISLAND CYCLIST | THE CYCLING PARADISE OF MERCER ISLAND

IT'S MORE THAN "REMODELING" | REMARKABLE TRANSFORMATIONS FROM PUZZLE SOLVING

BE A CONTRIBUTOR TO MERCER ISLAND CITY LIFESTYLE | MAKE MORE MAGIC ON MERCER ISLAND

"I'm as Northwest as It Can Get"

Joel McHale: A Mercer Island Memoir and Unwavering Love for the Northwest

Q1 2023 Mercer Island Stats

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Get Involved!

We hope this letter finds you laying by the pool or lake and soaking in some much-needed Vitamin D.

As the days grow longer and the weather gets warmer, we're enjoying the arrival of summer. There's just something about this season that brings about a sense of excitement and adventure.

There are so many July summer events that we couldn't capture them all. You will find our small curated list in the Local Experiences and Events sections towards the front and back of this issue, respectively. Be sure and catch Mercer Island's largest single event, Summer Celebration on July 15th at Mercerdale Park during the day and Luther Burbank Park in the evening. This year also marks the return of the Community Parade!

As you can see in the article titled Make More Magic on Mercer Island , we're asking readers to get involved with our magazine.  At the heart of Mercer Island City Lifestyle is a commitment to sharing the unique and compelling stories of our community.  Your ideas and input are deeply appreciated and we encourage you to email us or message us on our Instagram page (@mercerislandcitylifestyle). Feedback, story ideas and contributions from our readers will help to ensure that our content is a true reflection of the diverse perspectives and experiences that make Mercer Island such a special place to call home.

We were also fortunate to catch up with television and movie personality, Joel McHale t o talk about his Mercer Island roots and favorite summer time tradition and activity. "He's about as Northwest as it gets!"

As part of our dedications to "items of interest" to the Islander community, Peter Brown writes about a "Pet Peeve" and we pay homage to the cyclists with our story about Alden Gwinn, Island Cyclist. We'd love your ideas and photos for more on cycling!

Mark Elster educates us about the important points of remodeling because it's so much "More than Remodeling."

Just as this season has a way of bringing people together, we hope the pages inside this month’s issue will enrich and enliven your experience this Summer!

We hope you enjoy this edition and have a great July.

Thanks, CHRIS AND MIKE

@MERCERISLANDCITYLIFESTYLE

July 2023

PUBLISHER

Chris Ishii | chris.ishii@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Michael Stein | michael.stein@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Mark Elster, Peter Brown

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Cliff Lipson, Mark Jensen Photography, Dave Estrep, Vince Smith, Robby Webster, Flora Art Life, AOME, Island Animal Hospital, Island Books, Adobe Stock photography

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

1: Mercer Island Schools Foundation ‘Breakfast of Champions,’ April 25, 2023 2: Student Ambassadors Julia Harper, Silas Burkey, and Nathan Wen 3: Student String Trio performing at Breakfast of Champions 4: Student Drum Line performance at Breakfast of Champions 5: Local leaders honored by student artwork displayed at Breakfast of Champions 6: Student Volunteers for Mercer Island Schools Foundation Breakfast of Champions 7: Dr. Fred Rundle, Superintendent for Mercer Island School District keynote address at Breakfast of Champions

@MERCERISLANDCITYLIFESTYLE

8: MIHS grads Jay Caley, BMW Seattle and Adrian Diaz, Chief of Seattle Police Dept. 9: Rachel He, 2022 Miss Chinese Seattle speaks about the importance of learning from community leaders 10: Cynthia Hwang (left middle) and J.P. Morgan Private Bank team members at 60th Anniversary Celebration 11: Greater Seattle Chinese Chamber President Rick Choi, April La Plante of J.P. Morgan Private Bank 12: Greater Seattle Chinese Chamber of Commerce Board Directors and Committee Members at 60th Anniversary Celebration 13: Mak Fai Kung Fu Dragon & Lion Dance Association opening performance at 60th Anniversary Celebration 14: BMW Seattle Table at Greater Seattle Chinese Chamber of Commerce Celebration | China Harbor Restaurant

@MERCERISLANDCITYLIFESTYLE

GREATER SEATTLE CHINESE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

CYNTHIA HWANG

GREATER SEATTLE CHINESE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

@MERCERISLANDCITYLIFESTYLE

@MERCERISLANDCITYLIFESTYLE

GREATER SEATTLE CHINESE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @mercerislandcitylifestyle

15: Joel Ferrell and Alex Burlingame of Morgan Stanley - Joel’s retirement party at Metropolitan Grill 16: Jim Carlson educating art lovers at “New Art Forms from Photography” 17: MIVAL Artists’ Champagne Reception featuring artist Jim Carlson, “New Art Forms from Photography” (Island House) 18: Paget Wealth Partners of Rockefeller Global Family Office volunteering for Treehouse. 19: Paget Wealth Partners, Rockefeller Global Family Office volunteering at Lewis Creek Park for Earth Day 20: Vivian Chan, Wells Fargo Private Bank at Anise Thai Cuisine 21: “Gold Willow”, by Jim Carlson

How to Hire the Right Agent

Like many professions, there are a wide range of skills, experience and strategies an agent brings to the table. For this reason, the level of service you receive can vary greatly, even from agents in the same brokerage. While some sellers may think that all agents provide the same services, hiring the right agent can make all the difference in your bottom line.

I have been through many markets in my 35-year career and while record-low inventory and low interest rates have driven the market in the past few years, today’s market requires a much higher level of experience, market knowledge and top-tier strategies to get the best price out of the market.

Knowledge is power and the more I can educate sellers about the home sale process and the market, the more confidence and peace of mind they have, resulting in a more enjoyable and successful home selling experience.

Many sellers choose to interview several agents before they entrust one to handle what is typically one of their largest financial investments:

Here are some of the top questions to ask your agent before hiring them:

 How long have you been selling real estate?

 How many homes have you sold?

 What designations or accreditations do you have?

 Do you practice dual agency? (This is banned in 25 states).

 What is your average sales-price to list-price ratio?

 How long do your listings typically take to sell?

 What information will you provide to help us determine the value of our home?

 How will you market our home?

 How will you find the right buyer and negotiate the best price for us?

 Why should we list with you rather than any other agent?

Want to learn more about the home sale process?

Download my free book. Thinkingofsellingthis

local experiences

Family fun!

Art Walk is a monthly Friday summer walk. Sharon Singh beams about it! Others include Ginny Clarke, Joe and Tina Kennedy, and Suzanne Zahr, to name a few. Seattle hosts the 2023 MLB All-Star Game . T-Mobile Park, Lumen Field and Event Center host numerous activities and entertainment.

City of Mercer Island presents " Summer Celebration" - an all-day event with the parade, arts, performances, activities, and food!

Seafair is Joel McHale's favorite summer pastime. See walking, floating, and marching performers at the Torchlight Parade!

Our Picks for Your Summer Bucket List

REALOGICS SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY: Art Walk , July 7th, 5 - 8 pm. Start your tour of a local artist's work at Realogics Sotheby's International Realty at the Boyd Collection 7605 SE 27TH STREET, SUITE 102 Mercer Island, WA

T-MOBILE PARK: MLB All-Star Week | July 7 - 11 | HBCU Swingman Classic, Celebrity Softball Game, Futures Game, Workout Day, Home Run Derby, All-Star Game 1250 1st Avenue South, Seattle, WA

LUMEN FIELD | LUMEN FIELD EVENT CENTER: Capital One Play Ball Park | July 8 - 11 |  Over 50 Baseball-Themed Attractions and 20+ Mariners Alumni Scheduled to Meet Fans 800 Occidental Ave S, Seattle, WA

MERCERDALE PARK (DAY) AND LUTHER BURBANK PARK (EVENING): Summer Celebration, Mercer Island's largest one-day event, features the community parade's return, live music, community booths, art vendors, kid's activities, food trucks, fireworks and more! 3009 77th Ave SE (Day) and 2040 84th Ave SE (Evening)

SPACE NEEDLE: Alaska Airlines Seafair Torchlight Parade | Saturday, July 29, 2023 | Space Needle | 4th and Broad in Seattle - 3:00 pm to 5:30 pm 4th Avenue and Broad Street, Seattle, WA

Scan

MEET THIS MONTH’S CURATOR

Chris Ishii and Mike Stein | @mercerislandcitylifestyle

Chris Ishii and Michael Stein are Co-Publishers of Mercer Island City Lifestyle. Mike is a retired Managing Partner and has worked as an attorney for over 30 years Chris is a retired Managing Director and has worked as an Advisor and Financial Services Executive for over 30 years. Engaging with the Mercer Island community is one of the fun things we get to spend time doing and this magazine is a reflection of this journey. We love meeting new people and building on the relationships we’ve already started. It’s our deepest desire to have this magazine truly become a beacon of optimism and a reflection of the Mercer Island community. - Chris and Mike

The best places and things to do in our area.

Design is more than what is pretty and beautiful— It’s also about the ways the mood, feeling and function merge within our home, affecting our happiness and well-being.

Pet Peeve

What is your pet’s “pet peeve”?  What is the question your pet would ask, if they could? We are going to have fun with this column every month while answering some of your pet’s burning questions! This month’s Pet Peeve that we are going to address was sent in from Bob the Cat.

“I keep trying to tell my cat dad to clean my litter box, I mean, he flushes the toilet every time he uses it, all I’m asking for is the same consideration. But he just tells me to stop meowing so much. I am going to the litter

box all the time, but he only cleans it once a day. I tried peeing on him to see if he’d get the hint, but now he is withholding treats and skritches. Please help.” - Bob the Cat.

Great Question Bob the Cat! I’m glad you wrote in. As a dedicated cat dad, I’m sure your dad cherishes you and your companionship, and has no idea what you are trying to tell him. However, if you are using the litter box more often than usual, it would be a good idea to have a medical evaluation to make sure that increased urination isn’t related to an underlying condition.

ADVICE COLUMN FOR PETS!

ARTICLE BY PETER BROWN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ISLAND ANIMAL HOSPITAL GALLERY

When I talk to cat moms and dads, they are often confused when their cat’s behavior regarding the litter box changes. Once we rule out any medical issues, I can help them learn to listen to what you are trying to tell them, so you can communicate with them effectively, without having to meow all the time.

1. CHANGES IN LITTER BOX HABITS:

Cats are creatures of habit, and any sudden alterations in their litter box routine can indicate a problem. If you notice that your cat is using the litter box more or less frequently, eliminating outside the box, or even avoiding it altogether, it is crucial to pay attention. These changes may signify an issue that requires prompt attention.

2. FREQUENT VISITS TO THE LITTER BOX:

On the contrary, an increased frequency of litter box visits can also be a red flag. If your cat starts making frequent trips to the litter box without producing much urine or feces, it might indicate a potential urinary tract problem or other health issue. Such behavior should not be overlooked, as it could be a sign of discomfort or pain.

3. VOCALIZATION AND DISTRESS:

Cats may resort to vocalization as a means of expressing their dissatisfaction. Excessive meowing, growling, or howling when near the litter box can be a cry for help. Your cat is trying to communicate that something is amiss, and a medical evaluation is crucial to identify and address the underlying cause.

4. CHANGES IN LITTER BOX POSTURE:

Observing your cat’s posture while using the litter box can provide valuable insights. If your feline companion assumes unusual positions, such as hunching or straining excessively, it could indicate discomfort or potential urinary obstruction. These signs should not be ignored and warrant immediate veterinary attention.

5. UNUSUAL ODORS OR DISCOLORATION:

Take note of any changes in the odor or appearance of your cat’s urine or feces. Strong or foul-smelling urine, blood in the litter box, or abnormal discoloration could point to an infection, urinary tract issue, or other medical conditions. Seeking veterinary evaluation can help identify the root cause and facilitate appropriate treatment.

Being attentive to your cat’s litter box complaints is crucial for maintaining their health and happiness. By recognizing the signs of discomfort and seeking a medical evaluation, you demonstrate your commitment as a responsible cat parent. Remember, your veterinarian is the best resource to diagnose and treat any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to your cat’s litter box aversion. With their guidance and care, you can address the issue effectively and restore harmony between your cat and their litter box. Feel free to share this article with your dad, Bob the Cat!

I am happy to address any particular questions on this matter, or any other pet peeves you have by contacting me at paws@caraveterinary.com.

Being attentive to your cat's litter box complaints is crucial for maintaining their health and happiness

ARTICLE BY CHRIS ISHII AND MICHAEL STEIN PHOTOGRAPHY BY @MERCERISLANDCITYLIFESTYLE

MAKE MORE MAGIC ON MERCER ISLAND

BE A CONTRIBUTOR TO MERCER ISLAND CITY LIFESTYLE

Be a Mercer Island City Lifestyle Contributor

Mercer Island City Lifestyle is dedicated to fostering unity and belonging in our community. We invite you to be a contributor by sharing your photos, events, business news, and unique stories and perspectives.

Together, we can continue to celebrate and strengthen the vibrant fabric of Mercer Island, creating a living narrative that captures the essence of our extraordinary island community.

To trigger some ideas and activate you as a part of Mercer Island City Lifestyle, please consider any (or all) the following.

1. “CAPTIVATING” CITY SCENE

Our City Scene section showcases the people and beauty of Mercer Island through photography. From events to natural wonders to architectural marvels, we invite you to share your images capturing your daily lives and vibrant community events. Smartphone photos work great!

Get Involved: Share your photos with us by emailing your submissions to michael.stein@ citylifestyle.com .

2. “ENGAGING” EVENTS CALENDAR

Stay informed and engaged with our Monthly Events Calendar, featuring the Farmer’s Market, art and music festivals, and other can’t-miss events. We encourage you to participate in community events, share experiences, and submit your own events for inclusion in future calendars.

Get Involved: Email your event details and experiences to michael.stein@citylifestyle. com for a chance to be featured in our calendar.

3.

The goal of the Business Monthly section is to highlight Mercer Island’s economy and diverse local businesses. We celebrate their successes, innovations, and contributions to the community, keeping readers informed about the latest business news and developments.

Get Involved: Share your business news and milestones with us by emailing the details to michael.stein@citylifestyle.com

4. TELLING THE STORIES OF MERCER ISLAND

Your stories and ideas are welcome contributions as they ensure that our content is a true reflection of the diverse perspectives and experiences that make Mercer Island such a special place to call home.

Get Involved: Your editorial contributions and ideas can be emailed to michael.stein@citylifestyle.com or chris.ishii@citylifestyle.com

Leverage Mercer Island City Lifestyle to help you celebrate and strengthen the vibrant fabric of Mercer Island!

“DYNAMIC” BUSINESS MONTHLY

Collaborate with Mercer Island City Lifestyle

Joel McHale Headshot

"I'M ABOUT AS

Northwest can get!" AS

IT

You probably recognize Joel McHale, the charismatic and multifaceted television personality that has made appearances on television and movies for many years. With over 50 television shows, including Community, and more than 30 movies, such as Ted under his belt, Joel has entertained audiences worldwide.

What you may not know is that you could share a lot in common with Joel. You might even share a special connection through Mercer Island

I had the pleasure of chatting with Joel about his early life, growing up on Mercer Island, and his passion for the Northwest. It got off to a fun start.

I asked Joel where he was calling from.

JM: “What? You called me.”

After a long, pregnant pause, he let me off the hook.

JM: “Just Kidding. I’m calling from a little town called Los Angeles.”

Born in Rome, Italy, Joel McHale moved to Mercer Island with his family when he was very young.

JM: “My parents had to decide whether to raise three boys as Italians or move back to the States. This was the 70’s and back then, Rome was the center of the universe. To move back to the northwest corner of the United States in the 70’s, was not cool at all!”

Although he quickly recalled the house’s $85,000 price tag, he struggled to know why they selected Mercer Island as their home. What he vividly remembers is the poor economy.

JM: “I think they knew one family there. That was when Seattle was very depressed. There was even a billboard that said, 'Will the last person to leave Seattle please turn out the lights.'”

Joel still recalls the winter move from Rome to rainy, dark Seattle. One dreary day his dad was driving to work at Weyerhaeuser saying to himself, “The fun part of my life is over."

CONTINUED >

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CLIFF LIPSON, FOX, ISLAND BOOKS

But Joel was a child, and he could experience the beauty of Mercer Island in the 70’s, with lots to do and many places to explore. He seemed to have plenty of freedom to do so.

JM: “ I thought it was the greatest place on the planet and growing up on Mercer Island when there was still lots of waterfront property available. Mm-hmm. And undeveloped! It was just a great place to grow up. Being 13 minutes from downtown Seattle by bus was great. We were so lucky. I went all through school in the Northwest. Grade school at West Mercer and Island Park, St. Monica's from fifth to eighth, Mercer Island High School and then the University of Washington.”

“So, I'm as Frickin’ Northwest, as it can get. And then I moved away.”

Although he moved away 23 years ago, Joel’s taken notice of the changes since then and maintains regular visits. He and his wife still have family in the area.

JM: That's where my entire formative life took place and now, I mean it has transformed into something! Totally! I mean, it! Man, oh man!  Not only did Seattle transform, but it also become the center of coolness for quite the moment in the 90’s with all the money from the Amazon’s, the Starbuck’s, the Microsoft’s. That was just gigantic!”

Joel is a true Northwest sports fan. You may have seen him featured in numerous videos at Pro sports games. Unfortunately, not the Sonics.

JM: “I love Seattle sports. I still haven't gone to a Kracken game, but boy, do I! It’s just weird, being a Northwest sports fan to move to a city that has its’ own identity.

After a long sigh, Joel lamented.

JM: “When we lost the Sonics, it was just very heartbreaking. It's still hard for me. I'd like the Lakers, but it's still hard for me to root for them knowing the Sonics don’t exist. But in my heart, they exist, and they will again someday. It’s been a terrible 20-year drought.”

Joel's summer memories include playing basketball and baseball at Island Park, swimming at Luther Burbank and Groveland, swimming lessons at Mary Wayte, and spending hours at the beach club where he fell in love with tennis.

JM: “As we know, summer in the Northwest is one of the most beautiful seasons anywhere! And you pay for it during

SEE THEM EVERYWHERE, BUT THERE’S NOTHING LIKE THE SHOW THEY PUT ON FOR SEAFAIR!”

Joel with Laurie Raisys at Island Book event

Scene from Animal Control

“SEAFAIR WAS, AND TO THIS DAY IS, MY FAVORITE WEEKEND OF THE YEAR! IT’S THE CROWNING JEWEL OF EVERYTHING NORTHWEST! TO THIS DAY, WE GO TO MERCER ISLAND AND WATCH THE BLUE ANGELS. YOU CAN

the winter when the sun goes down at 3:45, right. Suddenly, the sun is out until 10:15 and the temperature is perfect.”

His memories continued to stream.

JM: “We rode bikes everywhere! Around the island often just to see if we could (make it around).”

The Dragon Park came up too.

JM: “We crawled all over the dragon!”

And boating?

JM: “I’d lean on my friends that owned boats. Got it to go 60 mph to jump off!”

He remembers the excitement of Seafair and enjoying the festivities with friends and family. He is especially fond of the Blue Angels, and you could tell he got amped up just talking about them.

JM: “Seafair was, and to this day is, my favorite weekend of the year! It’s the crowning jewel of everything Northwest!”

JM: “To this day, we go to Mercer Island and watch the Blue Angels. You can see them everywhere, but there’s nothing like the show they put on for Seafair!”

Joel is thrilled to be working on his show, Animal Control , set in Seattle with shooting in Vancouver, WA. The show was originally slated to be set in Chicago, and although he loves the city, it didn’t make sense to him. So, he got together with the Executive Producers, and they decided to reset the show in Seattle. This was a dream come true.

JM: "It was too good it be true to shoot a show two hours away from Seattle. “

How else does Seattle play in the show and what’s it about?

JM: “Thrilled to put in a number of references about Seattle. It's a Workplace comedy about the guys you call when you have a raccoon in your laundry room and need them to take it away."

You can find and stream Animal Control on FOX NOW, Hulu, Spectrum TV, Prime Video, Vudu or Apple TV on your Roku device. The Sitcom has been renewed for its second season on FOX.

JM: "The first season went well and thank God, it got renewed."

Joel was quick to put in a plug for the Writers and is hopeful for a favorable resolution.

Joel couldn't pinpoint his favorite role or scene.

JM: "Hmmmm. Don't have an answer to that."

As our time was up, I let him off the hook. “Joel, that's a great answer!” He laughed.

JM: "Don't be putting me in a corner Mr. Mercer Island reporter dude.”

As we wrapped up our chat, Joel lamented the loss of Roberto's pizza joint as if he was crossing it off his list.

Joel McHale may have moved away from Mercer Island, but his love for the Northwest and its unique beauty remains strong. His fond memories of growing up on Mercer Island and his continued ties to the area serve as a reminder that no matter where life takes you, you can always carry a piece of home with you.

I bet he still has a Sonics jersey!

Scene from Animal Control

Scene from Animal Control

ARTICLE BY CHRIS ISHII | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVE ESTREP, VINCE SMITH, ROBBYWEBSTER

ISLAND CYCLIST

Mercer Island is known to be the most bike friendly city in Western Washington. Known for considerate drivers and naturally contoured roads, Mercer Island sees countless solo and group riders take in the greenery and environment while being able to enjoy their ride in the most unique and natural setting near Seattle.

Alden Gwinn, a young man with a passion for cycling, had always felt a strong connection to Mercer Island. Born in Issaquah and having spent a significant part of his youth in the Netherlands, it was only natural that he would gravitate towards this island that seemed to share his love for the two-wheeled sport.

Upon graduating from Gonzaga University, Alden knew there was only one place he wanted to call home: the scenic and welcoming Mercer Island. His father’s advice echoed in his mind as he settled into his new life. “Three business avenues you’ll use later in life: tennis, golf, and cycling.” And although he enjoyed tennis and golf, it was cycling that truly captured his heart.

Alden’s passion for cycling began during his time in the Netherlands, where bikes were as common as cars on the streets, and children learned to cycle from a very young age. The Dutch culture embraced cycling as a way of life, and Alden quickly

The Cycling Paradise of Mercer Island

Leschi

Biking through Alvord Desert

Group ride - Leschi

Leschi

Hood River

Jumpin' in BEntonville, AR

Hood River

"Mountains to my right"

became enamored with the sport. He would ride 10 to 15 miles a day, exploring the picturesque countryside and the bustling streets of the cities.

It wasn’t long before Alden began participating in professional races. He competed in the Netherlands, Belgium, and France, honing his skills on the bike and fostering a deep love for the sport. Upon returning to the United States, Alden continued to race, taking part in competitions in Florida and Texas.

After graduating from college, Alden stepped away from racing competitively, but his love for cycling never waned. Instead, he shifted his focus to leisurely rides and networking through the sport, often remarking, “Not many sports where you can talk for two hours.”

Living on Mercer Island provided Alden with the perfect backdrop for his cycling adventures. The island was like a cycling paradise, with a continuous road that offered a 10-14 mile loop, complete with hills, turns, and stunning views. It reminded Alden of the slower pace and cycling-friendly atmosphere he had experienced in Europe.

But it wasn’t just the cycling opportunities that made Mercer Island special for Alden; it was the strong sense of community that permeated the island. Residents were friendly and welcoming, and he felt a genuine connection to his neighbors.

Alden Gwinn’s love for cycling had taken him on a journey across continents, from the picturesque landscapes of the Netherlands to the sun-soaked streets of Florida. But it was on Mercer Island, surrounded by the people he cared about and the sport he loved, that he had found his true home.

And as he pedaled through the winding roads of the island, Alden couldn’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for the life he had built - a life filled with the joy of cycling and the warmth of a close-knit community.

Alden Gwinn is a Client Service Associate with Tschetter Group where his role is to act as a client liaison between Service, Operations, and Planning/Advisory. You can contact him at  alden@tschettergroup.com and for information about the Tschetter Group contact info@tschettergroup.com .

Taylor & Alden at Lake Kachess

Taylor, Willow, and Alden at Lake Keechelus

Alden Gwinn

IT'S MORE THAN "REMODELING"

For many of us, remodeling an existing residence may be the best path to a home tailored to your family’s needs. But remodeling is not for everyone. Homeowners face several obstacles to success:

• Remodeling is often more stressful than building new.

• Living in your home while remodeling can be very disruptive to family routines, privacy, and comfort.

• Moving out during the work can be expensive and disruptive in its own way.

One proven way to manage and mitigate these obstacles is finding and selecting the right remodeling professionals for you.

The statement that remodeling is not for everyone applies to architects and contractors too. The success of a remodeling project will hinge upon getting the critical choice for these key project team leaders right.

Remodeling is fraught with risk and unexpected surprises (both pleasant and unwanted varieties). Some architects view this as a stimulating challenge, while others consider the whole enterprise unpleasant — something to be avoided. Asking design and contractor candidates why they chose to work in this more difficult segment of the market can reveal important information that a homeowner can use to evaluate who can best help them.Their answers will reveal much about how they approach the problems you’ll confront in remodeling and what compels them to continue. Having an enthusiastic partner, motivated by the right reasons, will benefit your project greatly. The key is to listen for your prospective architect, contractor or other professional to express an attraction to some variation of these three aspects of your remodeling project.

1. REMARKABLE TRANSFORMATIONS

ARTICLE BY MARK ELSTER PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL JENSEN PHOTOGRAPHY | AOME

Some architects revel in manifesting a transformative solution that to others had lain utterly hidden from view. Performing this metamorphosis can seem almost like wizardry! The opportunity to dramatically transform a home that suffers from esthetic and/or functional defects into a beautiful, livable refuge, tailor made for your family, is one of the most rewarding things an architect or contractor can do for a client. The more suboptimal the original home is (provided it has “good bones”) the greater the potential for the architectural transformation to startle and amaze clients and the community. Of course, your architect should not be so blinded by the quest for dramatic transformations that they overlook that a home can be so suboptimal that it doesn’t make sense to remodel.

2. PUZZLE SOLVING

Surprise! As the remodeling construction process begins, unknown conditions will be exposed that the contractor and architect must evaluate and determine appropriate solutions.

REMARKABLE TRANSFORMATIONS FROM PUZZLE SOLVING

Carport After Renovation Photo

"THE MOST IMPORTANT HOME IN THE WORLD IS YOURS. I RELISH THE CHALLENGE OF DESIGNING TO THAT HIGH IDEAL AND THE VERY PERSONAL JOURNEY THAT WE'LL EMBARK ON TOGETHER. I'LL CAREFULLY PROBE YOUR REQUIREMENTS, WANTS, AND NEEDS AND THOSE ASPECTS THAT SEPARATE YOUR CURRENT AND YOUR PREFERRED LIFESTYLE. IT IS THROUGH THIS JOURNEY AND THE INCORPORATION OF THESE ELEMENTS THAT WILL MAKE THE HOME BECOME TRULY YOURS." - MARK ELSTER

The problems can be quite perplexing in some cases, requiring extraordinary creativity and ingenuity to overcome. Some architects and their contracting comrades find that unraveling and solving the succession of unique puzzles each remodel presents to be stimulating, fun and satisfying. To this select group, confronting these challenges together and emerging victorious is immensely gratifying.

All projects, new or remodel, have constraints. But in new construction there is far more latitude determining how the design will respond to them. Remodeling inescapably has more constraints, and less latitude within a greatly narrowed range of potential design solutions. An architect can find this stifling to their creativity if they aren’t open to accepting those added constraints as an opportunity to create something unique. Something they would never have otherwise considered designing. Ideally, the architect welcomes these added constraints because of the inherently unique and often novel design solutions that emerge from the process.

Discovering that your architect and contractor relish the remodeling process because of these three factors bodes well for a successful and enjoyable process and result — a home you can be proud of that is a pleasure to live in.

Mark Elster is a Principal of AOME Architects PS. One of the founders of AOME, later becoming a principal in 1992, Mark and his partners personally design and manage construction for their clients. Beyond core design, Mark specializes in construction administration, unique details, marketing for the company, and overall management (amongst many other duties).

3. UNIQUE OUTCOMES

ABOUT THE PERSON

1964

Main House Front evening

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

JUNE 24TH

50TH ANNIVERSARY CONCERT & CELEBRATION

BENAROYA HALL | 2:00 PM

Northwest Girlchoir transforms the lives of girls and young women through outstanding music education, dynamic choral performances, and an enduring community.

Join them for Northwest Girlchoir’s 50th Anniversary Concert to celebrate a legacy of friendship through song.

JULY 4TH

Seafair Summer Fourth

GAS WORKS PARK | 3:30 PM

Experience the 4th of July with a fully choreographed fireworks presentation accompanied by a musical score and a host of preshow activities.

Summer Fourth offers free and reserved seating options and multiple vantage points to enjoy the show: Lake Union for an overhead view, Gas Works Park for a hilltop view, and Lake Union Park for a darker sky view.

JULY 10TH – JULY 14TH

Movie Star Camp 2023

8236 SE 24TH ST, MERCER ISLAND, WA

This camp provides an opportunity for children to learn film acting skills and then actually be in a short film.  Family and friends are invited to attend the premiere to be held on Thursday, September 21 2023 at 5:30 pm at the Mercer Island Community Rec Center.

Ages: Grade 2 – 8

Call (435) 315-3017 to register over the phone.

JULY 15TH

Summer Celebration

MERCERDALE PARK (DAY) LUTHER BURBANK PARK (EVENING)

10:00 AM TO 10:00 PM

Mercer Island's Summer Celebration returns on July 15, featuring the community parade, live music, food trucks, Touch-A-Truck, community groups, fireworks show and more! Join at Mercerdale Park in the afternoon and Luther Burbank Park in the evening. This is an event to bring all Islanders together, emphasizing our wonderful community. Visit  www.mercerisland.gov/summercelebration for more information and how to participate.

JULY 23RD

Seattle Chinatown

Seafair Parade

8TH AVE S. AND S. KING STREET, SEATTLE CHINATOWNINTERNATIONAL DISTRICT

7:00 PM TO 9:00 PM

The Seattle Chinatown Seafair Parade is famous for its rich ethnic flavors, the 100-foot dragon, and the Chinese Community Girls Drill Team in traditional Chinese opera costume. Added in recent years are many other Asian performance groups participating along with the traditional floats and drill teams, providing fun and entertainment for the spectators who line up along King and Weller!

MONDAY, JULY 31ST –

SATURDAY, AUGUST 5TH

Boeing Maritime Celebration Seattle

Fleet Week

WATERFRONT PARK 1401

ALASKAN WY, SEATTLE, WA

The spectacle known as the Boeing Maritime Celebration Seattle Fleet Week returns to Seafair once again. The celebration starts with the Parade of Ships through Elliot Bay, followed by a week of events where the public is invited to meet the sailors and guardsmen, enjoy free music, and take ship tours.

Kickoff your Seafair Weekend with Fleet Week!

STAY WELL

CITY LIFESTYLE

Summer Bucket List

Welcome, summer! As a hyper-local publication, we thrive on helping our readers make connections with the cities they live in, the businesses that make up their communities and the inspiring individuals making a positive mark.

Are you ready for your most adventurous, fun summer? Here are summer bucket list ideas for you to accomplish this year. We hope you’ll explore a new neighborhood, spend a lazy Saturday afternoon at a new winery or taste the flavors at a local ice cream shop. Let us know what you discover and enjoy! We’d love to hear.

KIDS ADULTS

Take

Visit

Go

Explore

Try

Hike

Explore

Go