One of Tacoma's most iconic neighborhoods is the North Slope Historic District and one of the early architects who helped create it and much of the surrounding city was Ambrose J. Russell. Russell came to Tacoma in 1892 and over the course of his career designed such notable buildings as the Washington Governor's Mansion in Olympia, the William Ross Rust House, Tacoma's Landmark Convention Center, and the Perkins Building.
It's unclear whether or not he designed the four-bedroom home at 1309 N 5th Street in Tacoma but he did live here between 1915 and 1932, which means he at least saw a design he liked. We're guessing he paid a little bit less than $535K back then.
Built in 1893, the home has been updated (thankfully) and appears to be owned by someone who loves chalkboards. The remodeled kitchen stands out with it's six-burner range, pot-fillers and expansive island. The living room has the kind of size that reminds us of a time when the family gathered together nightly before TVs and computers. Upstairs, the bedroom "cove" gives the master a unique feel. The attic "bedroom" is certainly a cool space for kids or guests.
· 1309 N 5th St, Tacoma [Estately]
· Ambrose J. Russell [HT]