Arts and Crafts whimsy meets Tudor detailing in this 1910 home that’s on the Tacoma Register of Historic Places. Architectural firm Heath and Twichell designed the residence. Half of that short-lived partnership was Frederick Henry Heath, known for designing Stadium High School in Tacoma and Paradise Inn at Mount Rainier.

After you make it past the two lions flanking the entrance and the lion door knocker—there’s a lotta Leo energy here—you step into a soaring entryway filled with ornate woodwork. 

The living room is split into two areas, one of which includes a cozy inglenook, characteristic of Arts and Crafts designs. 

Opposite the living room, the spacious dining room includes built-in cabinets under a quartet of stained-glass windows. Walk through the adjacent butler’s pantry to access a small sunroom-like nook—a favorite spot for the current owners’ cat—or the kitchen, which was updated in the mid-2000s. It's got modern functionality that doesn't detract too much from the authentic early-1900s feel.

Upstairs, there are four bedrooms and another sunny nook. No bedroom gives strong primary vibes, but each has its own charms. The star of the show here might just be the architectural detailing the rooms surround. See the ceiling timbers and peer over a wooden railing or through leaded glass windows to the entryway below.

This level also includes two bathrooms, somewhat peculiarly right next to each other. One has a claw-foot tub, while the other has a walk-in shower. Both have original stained-glass windows.

A narrower staircase takes you to the third level, where there’s one more bedroom, a bathroom, and a bonus room. From the top floor, you can glimpse views of Commencement Bay.

The basement includes another bathroom and a laundry room, plus plenty of unfinished storage and utility space.

During the height of the pandemic in 2020, the owners commissioned local artist Mindy Barker to turn the retaining walls on either side of the garage into a colorful mural. On one side is a young raccoon; on the other, a banana slug named Blana, both set against a multicolored backdrop inspired by sediment and bicycle spokes. Since the animals are still around after a few years, we can only assume they get along well with the lions in front.

Listing Fast Facts

624 N I St, Tacoma
Size: 5,100 square feet, 5 bedrooms/4.5 baths
List Date: 3/16/2023
List Price: $1,099,000
Listing Agent: Karen Sanford, John L. Scott