Orcas residents new owners of complex

They are known in the local boating community for their restoration of vintage Chris Craft yachts.

Now Deer Harbor residents Wesley Heinmiller and Alan Stameisen are taking on a new kind of project: renovating an apartment building.

The partners bought Orcas Arms apartments, located in Eastsound across from the library, in December from Bob and Trudy Murch. Although this is not their first land-based undertaking, it is definitely the most extensive.

Previous projects of the duo include restoring the old Bill Smith property in Deer Harbor, now called Sunset Cove, and renovating three Driftwood apartment units.

“We are excited to take on Orcas Arms and transform it into a residence that islanders can be proud of and enjoy,” said Heinmiller.

“We will be black topping the parking lot and changing the exterior appearance and colors. We will be adding a gazebo-type sitting area for our tenants to enjoy during the summer or to brave on a nice winter day. From the gazebo they will be able to enjoy the beautiful view we have of the sound,” he continued. The gazebo will be in the grassy area in front of the parking lot.

They will also be changing the name from Orcas Arms to Northern Heights.

Each unit will receive a complete renovation, including new light fixtures, bathroom vanities, flooring, paint, microwave vent hoods, double pane windows and track lighting. The laundry facility is getting a facelift too, with four state of the art washers and dryers, new lighting, and paint.

“Our goal when completed is to offer affordable housing on Orcas where tenants are proud to call Northern Heights home and want to stay long term,” said Stameisen.

For information about Northern Heights, call 714-271-1215 or e-mail nordicstr@aol.com.