Realty Round Up: Spokane, Washington

Jeff traveled to Spokane, Washington this past week for business. He had little, to no time to explore the city so he couldn't share any cool finds with me but I thought it sounded like an interesting place to feature. Spokane is located on the Spokane River in Eastern Washington and just 92 miles from the Canadian border. It is the second largest city in Washington and seems like a very desirable place to live. It is close to dozens of lakes and rivers, mountains and just a four hour drive from Glacier National Park. 

I have selected the South Hill area to feature which is one of Spokane's oldest residential areas. It seems to have a huge amount of historic homes and lots of community green space. However, it was hard to find any descriptive information on the area or write ups on great local finds. Any readers have recommendations?

House #1: $0 - $250,000

information and images via Zillow

Located in Cannon's Addition, this home was designed by W.W. Hyslop a prominent Spokane architect in the early 1900s. It features a beautifully grand living space, a large lot and much of its original character. 

House #2: $250,000 - $500,000

information and images via Zillow

This home is on the National Historic Register as well as several local registries. It has tons of original woodwork, leaded glass windows, wood floors throughout as well as an updated kitchen.  

House #4: $500,000 - $750,000

information and images via Zillow

This home has both historic charm and modern amenities. Key attributes include a great kitchen, new patio and close proximity to the local park. 

House #4: $750,000 - $1,000,000

information and images via Zillow

The Ferris House is one of the most significant architectural designs in Spokane. Designed by Bruce Walker, it is iconically modern. It is situated on roughly 43,500 square feet of property giving it a sanctuary like feel. For more information check out this home's website. 

Have a good weekend everyone! 

cleaning with BETTER LIFE

image via BETTER LIFE

I don't really like the act of cleaning. I know some people get great satisfaction from it but I much prefer to organize or even do laundry. One of the main things I dislike about it is all the chemicals that typically go along with cleaning products. I worry about Booker and what the harmful effects might be if he licks the floor right after I have washed it or why I get such a bad headache after cleaning the bathroom. And while I have been using "green" products for some time now it wasn't until I found the company BETTER LIFE that my worry subsided and I don't mind cleaning...as much.

BETTER LIFE is a local St. Louis company (another bonus for me) that was founded in 2007 by two Dads - Tim and Kevin. Tim is the brand man and Kevin is the chemist. All of BETTER LIFE's products are plant derived and are: GMO free, cruelty free, made in the USA, fragrance free, sulfate free and petroleum free and to top it all off they work! When we moved into our rental house I struggled for months to find a cleaner that would not leave streaks on our stainless steel appliances (confession - I even tried non-environmentally friendly cleaners) and nothing worked until I found EINSHINE. EINSHINE leaves no streaks and you don't have buff like crazy. I also really like what-EVER! their natural all purpose cleaner which I use in the kitchen and bathroom. Also they have great packaging design by Halski Studio which I always appreciate. 

image via Dooby Brain with package design by Halski Studio

I haven't used all their products yet but plan on only buying their line from here on out. Also just in case anyone was wondering this is not a sponsored post just a full fan endorsement :). Check out their website for a complete list of products, to order online or to find a retailer near you. 

artist feature: sharon montrose

I am a big animal lover which probably explains why I love animal themed home items. Animal brass figurines, prints, wallpaper, fabrics - the list goes on and I sort of can't get enough. They just make me happy. I especially love the work of photographer Sharon Montrose. Sharon with her husband and small team at the The Animal Print Shop, capture animals in a beautifully refined and playful way. Her prints are often featured in nurseries but I think they easily transcend to more adult spaces. Personally, I want one in every room but that might be a bit overkill.  Here are a few favorites:

1. via The Animal Print Shop by Sharon Montrose  2. room by The Animal Print Shop by Sharon Montrose with designer Morgan Satterfield  3. via The Animal Print Shop by Sharon Montrose  4. via The Animal Print Shop by Sharon Montrose  5. via The Animal Print Shop by Sharon Montrose  6. via The Animal Print Shop by Sharon Montrose