AT HOME IN TACOMA
A blog about all the little things that make Tacoma
home.
Neon Signage In Tacoma: A Photoblog
- By Sharon Benson
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- 18 Oct, 2019
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Neon signs found their origins in 1910 – exhibited by Georges Claude at the Paris Motor Show – functioning as a mashup of art and science. The beauty of the neon gas being directed through molded glass, becoming brilliantly luminescent in whatever shape you wish, was almost immediately adopted by anyone who wished to draw people to their business.
In America, neon signs found their glory days from the '20s through the '60s, at a time when cities were becoming increasingly metropolitan, transportation was more readily available, and nightlife was hitting its stride. Any old sign would have been missed by the after hours crowd, so the tantalizing glow of neon served as a beacon to lure the night owls.
As for Tacoma, the ghosts of the city's past mix so fascinatingly with its new landscape – the classic architecture, the fading signs painted onto brick walls and, yes, the neon. We have so many favorite signs around town, some of which are new, and some of which have weathered decades of Tacoma rain. Here are just a few that we love.
Merely blocks to the heart of the Proctor District, this beautifully curated Craftsman masterpiece offers the lifestyle you’ve been dreaming about in Tacoma’s North End. With a 1,632-square-foot layout plus an unfinished basement, this home-sweet-home is replete with historic charm, modern updates, and versatile spaces ready to evolve in the years to come. A picturesque backyard getaway blossoms with springtime wonder, while the newer detached garage promises even more flexibility. Located at 2411 N Union Avenue Tacoma, WA 98406 and just minutes to University of Puget Sound, the waterfront, Downtown Tacoma, and of course the Proctor District, this North End Craftsman is listed for $739,500.
Bright and beautiful, this classic Cape Cod retreat is a delight through and through, from its impeccably appointed living spaces to the spacious backyard. Imagine cozy evenings relaxing alongside the fireplace in the living room, enjoy the perks of having a formal dining room to host in, and discover dialed-in design in the kitchen. And that’s only the beginning! One of this home’s most enviable features is the fact that it's just down the street from University of Puget Sound and only 0.8 miles from the heart of the popular Proctor District. Located at 1102 N Washington Tacoma, WA 98406, this 2,084-square-foot home is listed for $640,000. Pre-inspection available after your tour.
Effortless low-maintenance living beckons from this turnkey condo in Renton. Featuring a 1,209-square-foot layout over 2 stories, here you’ll find plenty of space to spread out—in addition to 2 bedrooms and 2.25 baths, generous open-concept living offers an inviting atmosphere. This rare opportunity includes a few other enviable condo benefits as well—this home comes with an attached garage, and is even nestled alongside a greenbelt so you can enjoy natural beauty from your private outdoor retreat! Located at 3800 NE Sunset Boulevard #B101, Unit B101 Renton, WA 98056 and no more than 5 minutes to shopping, dining, schools, freeway access, The Landing and more, this condo is listed for $425,000.
