Alaska’s rich heritage is beautifully reflected in its historic homes, where timeless architecture meets modern convenience. We explore four remarkable properties that capture the spirit of Alaska’s past while offering today’s comforts. From a 1903 Historic Home and a 1912 Craftsman Home in Juneau to two traditional homes in Ketchikan built in 1903 and 1913, each residence tells its own captivating story. Whether you’re drawn to panoramic waterfront views or classic design details, these homes offer a unique window into Alaska’s storied history.
1. 1903 Victorian Home in Downtown Juneau
Built in 1903, this historic home in downtown Juneau, Alaska, currently listed at $1,149,900, blends timeless charm with modern updates. Located one block from the Alaska State Capitol, it sits on a 10,018‑square‑foot lot. The property offers a spacious 4,000‑square‑foot interior with five bedrooms and five bathrooms. It features ornate woodwork, antique fixtures, and custom inlaid hardwood floors. Recent renovations, including a new roof, ensure modern comforts while preserving its original character.
Where is Juneau?
Juneau is Alaska’s capital, rich in natural beauty and history. Situated along the Gastineau Channel, the city is embraced by rugged mountains and glaciers. Its past reflects a gold rush era and Tlingit heritage. Juneau is unique, with access mainly by air or sea, and offers scenic views and cultural landmarks that highlight both its natural splendor and historic charm.
Hallway
This hallway features rich wood trim and red-and-green hand-printed wallpaper. Ornate patterns cover the walls and ceiling, with carved moldings and stained glass transoms above each doorway. A chandelier lights the custom inlaid hardwood floor, showing intricate geometric designs. Large openings connect to adjacent rooms, revealing antique fixtures and high ceilings. The space reflects the home’s Victorian heritage and careful craftsmanship.
Closet
This cedar-lined walk-in closet combines practicality with period charm. Built-in shelves and ample hanging space keep items neat and organized. Soft overhead lighting enhances the warm wood tones, creating a welcoming feel. Its simple design echoes the home’s overall historic style while offering a functional area that complements the refined interior details.
Staircase
The wooden staircase stands as a focal point, showcasing expert craftsmanship and historic design. Polished treads and detailed balusters highlight its classic look, while a contrasting dark handrail emphasizes each step. Natural light reveals rich wood textures and smooth finishes. This staircase connects living spaces to upper floors and preserves the home’s period charm through meticulous restoration.
Sitting Room
The sitting room is a warm, inviting space perfect for quiet moments. Classic wallpaper, an antique chandelier, and simple furnishings evoke the home’s historic charm. Soft natural light fills the room, highlighting elegant details and comfortable seating. Arranged to encourage relaxation and reflection, this gentle retreat offers a calm space that enhances the home’s overall refined atmosphere.
Source: Coldwell Banker Race Realty via Zillow
2. 1912 Craftsman-Style Home in Juneau
Built in 1912, this four-bedroom, two-bathroom property stands on a 7,339-square-foot lot in a historic district near downtown. The living area spans 1,683 square feet, and it’s currently listed at $649,000. Large windows fill the interior with natural light, and new laminate floors brighten each space. Recent updates include a metal roof, energy-efficient windows, modernized plumbing, and fresh drywall. High ceilings and a second-story balcony reveal sea-to-summit views, while the basement offers workshop space and laundry. Flower beds, berry bushes, and a raised garden lend a peaceful outdoor setting.
Where is Juneau?
Juneau is Alaska’s capital, set in the southeastern part of the state along the Gastineau Channel. The city has a rich history tied to the gold rush and indigenous heritage. Surrounded by mountains and glaciers, Juneau offers breathtaking views and outdoor adventures. Its unique location means it is accessible mainly by plane or ferry. The city exudes charm and a close connection to nature.
Front Exterior
The front exterior shows classic Craftsman style. A simple porch leads to a bright front door. The house features a green facade with white trim and a pitched metal roof. Large windows let natural light in. Recent updates are evident in the neat siding and modern finishes. The design is sturdy and inviting, reflecting a blend of history with updated comforts.
Dining Room
The dining room is bright and inviting. Sunlight pours through large windows onto light-colored laminate floors. A simple chandelier hangs above a wooden dining table. The room feels spacious yet cozy. Minimal decor lets the natural light shine, creating a warm atmosphere. Its open design connects easily with adjacent spaces, making it perfect for family meals and gatherings.
Bathroom
The bathroom has a clean, modern look. White tiles line the walls and a tub-shower combination stands as the centerpiece. Updated fixtures and a sleek sink complete the room’s simple design. A small window lets in soft natural light, creating a bright space. Open shelving provides storage for towels and toiletries. The room is both practical and stylish, offering a space to freshen up and relax after a long day.
Kitchen
The kitchen is bright and cheerful. Pink and white cabinets give a retro look. A matching countertop and backsplash complete the design. Modern appliances like a white refrigerator and electric range fit well. Natural light fills the room from a large window, creating a warm cooking space. A wooden trim adds a cozy touch. The kitchen is practical with plenty of counter space for meal preparation.
Living Room
The living room is spacious and inviting. A large picture window offers views of the mountains and sea. Neutral walls and floors create a bright, open space. Comfortable furniture makes the room perfect for relaxing or entertaining. The area flows easily into other parts of the home. Soft natural light fills the space, creating a calm atmosphere. This room is a gathering area that combines historic charm with modern style.
Source: Platinum Keller Williams Realty Alaska Group via Zillow
3. 1903 Vernacular Estate in Ketchikan
Built in 1903, this three-bedroom, two-bathroom house sits on a 5,146-square-foot lot above downtown Ketchikan. Priced at $349,000, it offers 1,844 square feet of living space. A classic covered porch with original columns reflects its early 1900s roots, and large windows look out over the channel, revealing cruise ships and maritime views. Long held by the same owners, this historic property captures the city’s heritage and remains a rare find on the market.
Where is Ketchikan?
Ketchikan is in Southeast Alaska, along the Inside Passage. Surrounded by mountains and forests, it’s known for fishing, Native Alaskan culture, and numerous totem poles. Cruise ships regularly stop here, drawn by the coastal scenery and local art. The town is accessible mainly by plane or ferry, making it a unique destination. Its hillside neighborhoods, like the one this home occupies, overlook a bustling harbor.
Rear Exterior
A sloping lot highlights the home’s elevated setting above the city. Green shingles top weathered siding, and a red fuel tank sits near the back entry. Windows wrap around the structure, capturing panoramic water and city views. The multi-gabled roofline adds dimension to the exterior. This vantage point underscores the home’s hillside position, offering a glimpse of Ketchikan’s downtown life and visiting cruise ships below.
Kitchen
An arched doorway opens into a compact kitchen framed by wood paneling. Light-colored cabinets line the walls, and a modest counter provides prep space. The floor has a patterned surface that echoes the vintage feel of the walls. Overall, the kitchen maintains a functional layout that reflects the home’s historic era.
Bedroom
This upper-level bedroom sits under a pitched roof, creating cozy angles in the ceiling. Neutral walls and a mix of carpet and linoleum flooring define separate areas. A built-in nook offers extra storage or a space to display personal items. Light enters through a small window, softening the room’s overall feel. The design highlights the home’s turn-of-the-century roots, inviting personalization while preserving historic charm.
Historic Photo
A sepia-toned image depicts the steep hillside community in an earlier era. Wooden buildings climb toward the sky, connected by tall staircases. Power lines mark a shift into modern times, while store fronts suggest a growing port town. The home in question is part of this layered scene, reflecting Ketchikan’s development over the past century. This snapshot underscores the property’s longstanding place in local history.
Source: Coastal Keller Williams Realty Alaska Group via Zillow
4. 1913 Vernacular Home in Ketchikan
Built in 1913, this three-bedroom, two-bathroom house offers 1,317 square feet of living space on a 2,178-square-foot lot. Priced at $405,000, it has undergone extensive interior and exterior remodeling, including updates to the kitchen, living room, and flooring. A newly installed heat pump (2019) provides modern comfort, while the two-story layout includes a daylight basement once used as a workshop. Carport parking and a fenced yard add convenience and outdoor space.
Where is Ketchikan?
Ketchikan lies in Southeast Alaska along the Inside Passage, a region known for its scenic waterways and lush forests. The city is reachable mainly by ferry or plane, drawing visitors with its vibrant fishing heritage, Native Alaskan culture, and iconic totem poles. Cruise ships often dock here, adding to the bustling waterfront atmosphere. Steep hillsides and boardwalks showcase Ketchikan’s historic charm.
Yard
A narrow side yard stretches between the home’s exterior wall and a wooden fence, offering space for gardening or pet play. Small trees and shrubs add greenery, and a covered area near the back door can serve as storage or a cozy outdoor nook. Overhead, the home’s second-story windows overlook the yard, letting in light while maintaining a sense of privacy.
Bathroom
A simple corridor-like layout leads to a compact bathroom with white walls and neutral-toned flooring. The toilet and sink are positioned along one side, while a walk-in shower sits at the far end. Shelving units provide space for toiletries, and a small window near the shower adds natural light. The overall feel is practical and streamlined, suiting everyday use.
Living Room
This main-level living space features warm-toned laminate floors and light walls, creating an airy environment. A large TV stands opposite a small dining setup, while a wide doorway reveals the adjacent kitchen. Wood trim around windows and the ceiling adds a subtle rustic touch. Soft overhead lighting complements natural light from the windows, making the area welcoming for relaxation or entertaining.
Kitchen
A U-shaped layout anchors this bright kitchen, with wooden cabinetry spanning three walls. A central island offers extra prep space and storage, and overhead lights illuminate the work area. White appliances, including a gas range and microwave, contrast with the warm wood tones. A window above the sink brings in daylight, blending practicality with a homey atmosphere for cooking.
Shed
In the backyard stands a compact shed used for storing firewood and tools. Wooden slats on one side shelter cut logs, while a taller, enclosed unit next to it houses larger equipment. The pitched roof helps channel rain away, keeping items dry in Ketchikan’s damp climate. Surrounded by greenery, this structure adds valuable storage and functionality to the outdoor space.
