Nestled in the historic Montlake district of Seattle lies a unique architectural marvel, a pie-shaped home with a story as intriguing as its design.
Built in 1925, legend has it that a divorcée, unable to secure a loan due to the societal norms of the time, decided to construct this house on the land she inherited: her ex-husband’s front yard.
This decision was not just a testament to her resilience but also a subtle act of defiance, as the house was strategically placed to block her ex-husband’s view.
The Montlake Spite House, as it’s fondly called, is a classic ultra-thin home, measuring just 55 inches at its narrowest point.
This dimension is barely enough to fit a queen-sized bed. Yet, despite its unconventional shape, the house exudes a charm that’s hard to resist.
The owner, Emily Cangie, often likens the house to a “little wedge of cheese” due to its peculiar shape and mild yellow hue.
As you step into the house, you’re greeted by the original stucco walls and cedar lathing, which have stood the test of time.
The narrow entrance, reminiscent of an outdoor porch, leads to a cozy living space.
The lucite chairs around the dining table allow for more light transmission, making the room feel more spacious than it actually is.
The kitchen, though compact, is functional and retains its original bead board.
Emily recalls how she would often shoot videos for international conferences right from this kitchen.
The only design change she would have made? Moving the fridge to a different spot to improve the flow of the space.
The house’s design truly shines in its clever utilization of space.
The downstairs area, which Emily fondly refers to as “the boat,” houses a bedroom with a bed built like a captain’s bed on a ship.
The bed, snugly fit at the tip of the pie, is a testament to the home’s innovative design.
The bathroom, too, follows the wedge shape of the house.
Despite its unconventional layout, it’s equipped with all the essentials, including a tub and a shower. The original tiles add a touch of vintage charm to the space.
But it’s not just the design that makes this house special — it’s the history and the spirit of defiance it embodies.
In an era when women in the U.S. couldn’t get their own credit and needed male co-signers for loans, the construction of this house was a bold statement.
Emily often reflects on the challenges the original owner must have faced and admires her creativity and determination.
Over the years, the Montlake Spite House has seen numerous residents, each leaving their mark while preserving its original charm.
Emily recalls how a family of five, along with their pets, once made this space their home, pushing its capacity to the limit. Such stories add layers to the house’s rich history.
As the Montlake Spite House approaches its 100th anniversary, it stands as a symbol of resilience, creativity, and defiance against societal norms.
Check out the full tour of the house in the video below!
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