The dreamiest homes on the Street

Three homes dominated the awards for this year's Seattle Street of Dreams, but the professionals, and real-estate agents and the public couldn't quite agree on which was the best.

A group of professionals anointed Hillcrest Farm, a farmhouse-style estate with timbered ceilings and a bath overlooking a private garden, Best in Show for this year's display of six luxury homes.

But realty agents and the public went for the splashy — and enormous — "The Retreat" at Water's Edge. At more than 11,000 square feet, it was the largest house ever for the Seattle Street of Dreams.

"The Retreat" also claimed Most Livable and Best Kitchen from Realtors; Best Interior Design from professionals; and Best Landscaping, Best Interior, Best Outdoor Living, and Best Architectural Design from the public.

Verandah Bay, a Neoclassical Eastern Seaboard-style home featuring lake views, also was lauded by all three groups for its value, curb appeal, interior design and technology.

This year's attendance is expected to be among the three highest since the show started in 1984, said president John Heller. Charitable donations, which go to the Make-A-Wish Foundation and the Children's Home Society of Washington, would be at an all-time high, he said.

The Seattle Street of Dreams showcases luxury homes for the public, with innovative technology, dream interiors and gorgeous landscaping.

This year's homes are priced up to $5.5 million, and five are still for sale.

The Sammamish-based showcase runs through Sunday. It is open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. For more information or to purchase tickets online, see www.seattlestreetofdreams.com.

A special furnishings sale occurs Monday after the show has closed, from noon to 7 p.m. Most designers mark down furniture and accessories and sell them to the public. For directions to the sale, see the Seattle Street of Dreams magazine, visit the Web site or call 206-654-4663.

Nicole Tsong: 206-464-2150 or ntsong@seattletimes.com