AT HOME IN TACOMA
A blog about all the little things that make Tacoma
home.
Neon Signage In Tacoma: A Photoblog
Sharon Benson • October 18, 2019
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.
A true masterpiece, this iconic legacy residence boasts historic craftsmanship, stunning Puget Sound and territorial views, and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Perfectly positioned in Tacoma’s Stadium District just above Old Town, this 1905-built Pacific Northwest treasure was designed by Frederick Heath. Also owned by a noted local stained-glass artist, this home showcases exquisite glass art in addition to the unmatched expert design you’ll find at every turn. Connect with nature in the Italian-inspired formal gardens, and find flexibility with the DADU/cottage nestled on this almost half-acre lot. Located at 923 N Yakima Avenue Tacoma, WA 98403, this 7,767-square-foot home with 6 bedrooms and 3.5 baths is listed for $2,250,000.
Updated with care and showing off delightful vintage character, this home in Central Tacoma promises easy one-level living. With a 1,229-square-foot layout that includes 3 bedrooms and a ¾ bath alongside inviting living spaces, this home truly checks all of the boxes! And that’s only the beginning—this turnkey Tacoma treasure is also situated on an expansive 9,000-square-foot lot that includes a generous backyard. Bring your imagination and plans, as there’s even the possibility to build a garage/shop, a DADU and garage combo, or maybe even 2 additional dwellings. (Buyer to verify development options to their satisfaction.) Located at 3016 S 10th Tacoma, WA 98405 and just blocks from 6th Ave, dining, shopping, schools, parks and more, this city oasis is listed for $535,000.
Brimming with historic character yet updated with modern conveniences, this classic Craftsman in Downtown Puyallup checks all of the boxes! Featuring a 2,640-square-foot layout, this home includes 4 bedrooms and 2 baths alongside generous living spaces, a beautifully updated kitchen, and so much more. And don’t miss th
