Magnolia midcentury modern home hits the market for the first time

Born in Bolivia, José Montaño came to Seattle to study architecture at the University of Washington under Lionel H. Pries–a pioneer of Northwest modernism–in 1947. He went on to help design the original hangars for the Boeing 737, among other notable projects. For the first time since he designed and built it in 1969, Montaño’s midcentury family home is on the market. 

Overlooking the Ballard Locks, 3321 W Commodore Way is a four-bedroom, two-bathroom home with 2,540 square feet. Located across Salmon Bay from Ballard, the home is prime for watching ships and boats of all types sail by. Additionally, the property boasts quick proximity to Ballard’s shopping and dining options, as well as Magnolia Village and nearby parks. 

The home is full of midcentury elements, including high ceilings, oversized windows, natural woodwork, wood flooring and wood-plank ceilings. Its open, multi-level layout include thoughtful touches like two fireplaces, skylights, a project room and an abundance of storage throughout. Additional amenities include a media room, built-in wine racks, gas heat and a carport.

Looking more closely at Montaño’s legacy, he graduated with an architecture degree in 1951 and worked for The Austin Co. for years. He specialized in modern industrial design, and in his 2011 obituary, Montaño’s son said he brought elements of his native Aymara heritage into building design, including the sense of proportion and symmetry of the pre-Inca style. Among other works, Montaño designed the Pacific National Bank building in the University District and a 36-acre production facility in Bothell for The Seattle Times–the last local project he worked on.

Listed by Carmen Gayton and Chandler Gayton, Windermere Real Estate Co. | Listed at $1,195,000