6th Ave. ADU Stay

It is a rare and delight to be able to enjoy the end result of our work. This weekend I got to stay in a detached ADU with garage below which I had designed near 6th Avenue in Tacoma. You could probably spot it if you are in line for Papusas at Balcon Express, it is located in the alley behind the Boom Boom Room and Tacoma Bikes.

We had designed this knowing we needed a variance because of the odd site shape. Only 20’ wide in total this studio is probably the most narrow that we have designed, but it met all my needs and far exceeded my expectations during my stay!

It was amazing to see this one take shape, I will include some photos from the build. The navy with white trim is one of my favorite exterior color schemes and something they chose to go with on this one.

The tile work came out exceptional in the kitchen and the bathroom. There is a sort of vintage and earthy interior design that vibes well with the natural light from the skylights and openness of the design that ties everything together cohesively.

I got some remote work done and pigged out on takeout, and I would do it again. It would be an awesome landing spot for anyone wanting to check out the area or for an extended staycation. You can find it on AirBnb “Eclectic 1 bedroom guesthouse directly on 6th ave.”

Kenyon Residence

A local builder approached me about a year and a half ago to help him with plans and design for a tear down rebuild in north Tacoma. His name is Scott Kenyon with K and S Renovations, since then we have worked on many many successful projects together, but this was the first, and it would be his primary residence.

This is located in a view sensitive district so we had to use a shallow hip roof style in order to comply with the height restrictions. The full length covered patio and balcony on both front and back created what we would refer to as a “contemporary southern” look. The white board and batten siding mixed with the black accents gives it a very clean and classic look. The best part is the sweeping view of Commencement Bay from the upstairs bar / living room.

This will always be one of my favorite projects. It was a thrill to see it go from a pile of rubble to a shining example of excellence in design and construction. It dosen’t hurt being in such a gorgeous setting either.

North Tacoma Remodel

I was approached by a builder last year to develop plans for a residential remodel for an old home by Wilson (Silas) High School off of Orchard St. in Tacoma.

I had worked with Declan of D Noble Construction before, we remodeled a small church house in Tacoma’s North Slope Historic District. It is now a functioning 2 bedroom rental.

This house was trashed. The former owner was smoking inside for decades, you could see the outline of pictures on the wall where the yellow discoloration was less pronounced. When I first arrived it was a mess of naked studs and crumbled lath & plaster.

We were able to combine the kitchen, living room, and dining room with a strategically placed beam, creating an open floor plan. Removing and relocating key demising walls in the basement we were able to produce a much more open feel and usable space. Tile finish in the bathrooms came out fantastic, and the kitchen design with the reclaimed lumber shelving was my favorite part of the interior design.

This project is an excellent example that even the most far gone old places have incredible potential with a great plan and some fine craftsmanship.