An architectural oddity in the West, the Shingle style was more common in upscale, eastern coastal communities. In this example, unusual for Montana, the characteristic gambrel roof conceals the residence’s second story. A Palladian front window punctuates the upper level. Plain in decorative detailing, this architectural design attempts to unify the irregular outline of the house with wood shingle cladding, giving the effect of a complex shape enclosed within a smooth surface. Madison and Alice Love moved into their unique dwelling in 1909, ten years after arriving in Kalispell. Madison was a plumber at McIntosh Hardware Company and Alice was an artist who painted china. The Loves shared their home with boarders, especially teachers. After 1936, they moved to the clapboard dwelling at the rear of the property, renting out their home to various tenants. During the late 1930s the residence was often referred to as the Love Apartments. Madison and Alice died within seven months of one another in 1940.
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