Famed Seattle Engineer Jack Christiansen’s Rare Island Paradise Lists for $4.4 Million: ‘There Is Not Another House Quite Like This’

A shimmering four-bedroom estate on Washington state’s Bainbridge Island that was originally built as structural engineer Jack Christiansen‘s private residence just hit the market for $4.4 million.

Located on 2.03 acres, the 3,606-square-foot residence has been dubbed The Christiansen House in honor of the Seattle Kingdome’s famed engineer, whose work included everything from the Seattle First National Bank to the Washington State Convention and Trade Center.

Built in 1965, along with architect Paul H. Kirkas, Christiansen’s private architectural marvel features a “hyperbolic-paraboloid thin-shell concrete design,” which appears to float above the living space.

“There is not another house quite like this in the Pacific Northwest the way it was built,” says Danny Varona, of Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty, who is co-listing the property with Matthew Paige.

“Jack Christiansen did a lot of commercial projects, so this is a rarity. When you say you really haven’t seen a house quite like this, you actually mean it with this one.”

The stylish interior features exposed beams, a floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace, skylights, French doors, radiant heat, and glass walls providing spectacular waterfront views.

“We sold it the last two times,” Varona says. “The owner who took stewardship from the Christiansen family did a lot of updating and had the kitchen and bathrooms remodeled.”

Varona says the home could be used as either a primary or secondary residence.

“It was the second home for the current owner,” he says. “They moved here for family and are now moving back to Colorado for family.”

The open floor plan is surrounded by waterfront views of Port Orchard and stunning vistas of the Olympic Mountains enjoyed from nearly every room, while floor-to-ceiling windows turn the views into their very own works of art.

“It has a really nice floor plan that looks like it’s just one level, with everything you need on the main level,” Varona adds. “The lower level is great for guests.”

A sleek kitchen has high-end, stainless steel appliances; a waterfall island; custom lighting; and ocean views.

Meanwhile, the glass-encased living room seamlessly accesses the outdoor patio space.

“I think the next buyer will be someone looking for a home with very unique architecture,” Varona says. “The setting is beautiful with a 180-degree view of the Olympic Mountains and nice beach access.”

The spacious property with west-facing exposure is also centrally located just 35 miles from downtown Seattle.

“It’s the proximity of Bainbridge Island that draws people to it,” Varona notes. “It has that small-town feel but is just a half an hour away from the largest city. It’s truly one of those jewels that you just can’t replicate.”

Bainbridge Island—where Christiansen died at age 89 in 2017—is west of Seattle and can be accessed by ferry.

However, for those who prefer a car ride, there is a bridge at the north of the island that connects to Tacoma, WA.

The island itself has a wealth of amenities, including hiking trails, restaurants, and plenty of activities that can be enjoyed on the water.

“Truly the jewel of Puget Sound, Bainbridge Island has something for everyone,” the local community website states.

“Family-friendly parks and trails, fantastic local arts and cultural performances, magnificent food and wine, and nearly endless ways to enjoy the water, we encourage you to spend a day or a week getting to know our island.”