Traditional Tacoma

Built in 1935, this 1/2-acre view property overlooking the Puget Sound had been completely neglected for more than twenty years, and plant material completely obscured the home. In clearing the property, five dumpsters were filled with not only excess plant material but also trash, dilapidated arbors and garden structures; remnants from an abandoned koi pond, canoe rack and chicken coop; dead and dying trees; rocks and cement blocks. An arborist removed two enormous trees that threatened the home. A new retaining wall along the back edge of the property stabilized the hillside and provided a level backyard walkway, patio and access to a deck to take advantage of the view. Iron fencing and gates provide privacy. Small areas of turf, surrounded by native, deer-resistant plants and original flagstone walkways (which were uncovered during the initial clearing) sooth the eye and allow visual areas of rest. Low-voltage lighting cast dramatic shadows to highlight nighttime views of the newly uncovered home and guide visitors to entrances. While currently a young garden, plants will quickly establish themselves in the rich, glacial-compaction soil of this USDA Zone 8a property.