Topper House is part of a living legacy and our very first Terra Firma Property, and it’s one that really pulls on our heartstrings. Named after my father’s military call sign, this beautiful 2 bedroom, 1 bath condo was a harbor house for my father after our family home burned down in one of California’s largest wild fires. After experiencing the transitional nature of life in this space and creating so many new memories here, I designed this space to represent one of the favorite memories I share with my father, traveling through the Southwest states of the U.S.
You’ll find many elements here that call back to mid-century design and craftmanship. My father was an avid lover of Mid-Century furniture and even built several of the pieces we had in our original family home. At Topper House, you will find beautiful, rich wood grains and woven fabrics mixed with the rustic Spanish craftmanship you would typically find in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Through my own travels, I have been richly influenced by Spanish Colonial architecture and the natural wood carving you heavily see in the Southwest and California coastline missions, and I wanted to create a modern space that embodied that regal yet fundamental earthy sensibility, and feature beautiful handcrafted art from Native and Latin artists from those regions.
After living in the Pacific Northwest for more than two decades, I’ve grown deeply connected to the region’s landscapes, history, and creative traditions. Topper House incorporates elements that reflect this connection, including handmade artwork crafted by Nez Perce tribal artists and thoughtfully curated historical photography by Edward S. Curtis. Each piece is included with respect and acknowledgment of the cultures and stories they represent, helping create a space that feels rooted in the Northwest’s rich heritage.
Topper House is a fully furnished 1000 square foot condo, located within the Whalers Village Community. Featuring beautiful views of the Puget Sound, and private beach access. This home resides within a gated community, with access to many recreational amenities, such as a community pool, paddle board and kayak storage and a community garden. The private beach is a scavenger’s paradise, where you can commonly find unique sea shells, sea glass, gnarled drift wood and many other fascinating finds. Simply grab your kayak and walk steps out to the water!
Featuring 2 spacious bedrooms equipped with one king and one queen sized bed, this home can comfortably sleep four people. Each room has been carefully curated with care to provide both design and functionality. All rooms are equipped with traditional household items to make your stay as comfortable and simple as possible.
Des Moines is a picturesque waterfront town located along the eastern shore of the Puget Sound, just 20 miles south of Seattle. Known for its stunning views of the Olympic Mountains and its vibrant marina, Des Moines offers a unique blend of urban convenience and natural beauty. This waterfront town is characterized by its charming small businesses, local parks and trails, a diverse summer time farmers market and beautiful public marina where you’ll commonly see pier fishermen and the occasional orca sighting.
Only a 30-minute drive to downtown Seattle, and iconic landmarks like the Space Needle, Pike Place Market and world class museums and concert venues, Des Moines serves as the perfect base for experiencing the best of both worlds – serene waterfront living and the dynamic energy of a major metropolitan area.
The natural beauty of Des Moines is complimented by its rich marine ecosystem and diverse wildlife, making it a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The surrounding parks and wetlands serve as crucial habitats for migratory birds, providing excellent bird watching opportunities throughout the year. The combination of stunning landscapes, thriving sea life, and a strong focus on conservation makes Des Moines a remarkable destination for those seeking to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
