8/14/08

Unique gift store gets a new/old home

by Beckye Randall

After doing business for nearly 10 years in the Allen Creek shopping center, Details has moved to a unique, historic home at the corner of 47th Ave. NE and 61st St. in Marysville.

The inviting store, which features high quality home décor and accessories, is owned by Louise and Wayne Christianson. Moving their business to the historic Quast family home offered an opportunity for growth but has also brought its share of challenges.

Warren Quast, who was born in the house next door in 1925, moved with his family into the lovely home in 1931.

“My grandfather built this place,” Quast explained as he inspected the renovations that have transformed the family home into a vibrant showplace. “When I was a youngster, my grandparents needed more care, so my parents moved in here with them.”

The long-time Marysville man approved of the Christiansons’ work on the home. “You know, when you’re little, everything looks bigger. Even though it seems smaller now, it all looks familiar,” he said.

From the vintage front door with its beveled glass panes to the kitchen sink cabinet, much of the home’s original details have been preserved. A built-in sideboard with leaded glass doors displays colorful serving items and home accessories, while the fireplace mantel holds picture frames and clocks.

“Bringing this old home up to code has been a challenge,” said Wayne Christianson. “We’ve put in all new plumbing and electrical service and installed a new furnace.”

When the business lease was up at the Allen Creek location, the Christiansons found the old Quast home and decided to give it a try. They purchased the house in November 2007 and started renovation work in February of this year.

The half-acre lot offers ample on-site parking on a pervious asphalt surface. “The material allows the rainwater to seep through, rather than draining into the street or puddling,” Christianson explained.

Shoppers who are looking for unique items for every room of their home should visit Details. From vintage-looking kitchenware to modern accessories, the shop holds treasures around every corner.

Details also carries a good selection of children’s toys and games, none of which require batteries.

Long-time employees Barb Calkins and Tami Brown offer expert advice, free gift wrapping, and can even provide custom interior decorating services. The two women, who have worked at Details nearly since its opening ten years ago, are responsible for the eye-catching displays throughout the shop.

The pioneer home has seen its share of history through the years. In the 1920s, according to Quast, the local county commissioner was determined to put an end to local “stills” and his office had gotten a tip that an illegal brewing operations was ongoing at the Quast home. When his agents showed up and found no such operation, the commissioner found himself the subject of negative PR. He lost his seat in the next election.

The Christiansons’ retail store makes great use of the historic home’s charms. Visit Details at 4716-61st St. NE from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday. After Labor Day, Sunday hours will be added. For more information, visit www.detailshdgifts.com or call (360) 651-9077.