Once in a lifetime opportunity to own this timeless, turn-of-the-century home on shy 1/2 acre lot. Located in North Tacoma’s desirable Seminary District, above the lush Mason Gulch where sunrise views stretch all the way to Glacier Peak. Built by Thomas McMillian with entirely clear lumber. It’s no surprise why this location was chosen as one of the 1st in the neighborhood to be developed; site offers 180-degree forest and water views plus optimal light. From the covered porch to the back patio, enjoy peace, quiet and total privacy. Sunroom inside affords year-round views and if you’re lucky, whale sightings from the upper deck. This home has been lovingly passed down through 3 generations — don’t miss your chance to carry on its great legacy
Storybook Sunrise Estate
4201 N Mason Ave. Tacoma, WA 98407
FOR SALE: $1,750,000
MSL#2353274
Represented by Realtor & Luxury Advisor, Jenny Wetzel w/ Windermere Abode
HOME FEATURES
- LOT SIZE: 0.445 Acres (19,400sf)
- 5 Bedrooms (Primary on the main floor)
- 1.75 Baths
- Built in 1900. Effective Year Built 1962
- TOTAL Square Footage: 4,352
- 2,930 FINISHED
- 1,422 UNFINISHED (basement)
- Central gas radiant heating
- Detached 2-car garage (432 Square Feet)
Half Acre Legacy Home
What begins as a secret garden (home is not seen from the street), continues on with incredible privacy and sweeping views of the Puget Sound. The walkway leads you to either the front door or back patio. Follow the walkway to the front door on the covered deck. From here you’ll watch the sunrise and endless sound views.
History of the Garden
The garden was intentionally curated and tended to throughout its history – over 125 years. Mrs. Thompson (previous owner) is quoted in a historic article saying “I have heard that your yard should be beautiful at all times of the year… If it is landscaped properly, it will be”. The original owner and builder of the Estate constructed the garden beds around rare Asiatic Magnolias and a collection of trees and shrubs that mature beautifully. Many of these center piece trees and shrubs are thriving on the property today.
Opportunity of a Lifetime + Multigenerational Living?
The lot is 19,400 square feet – just shy of half an acre. In Tacoma at large, less than 1.7% of lots are this size or larger and less than 1% of those are located in North Tacoma. Now add sweeping 180 degree views of the Puget Sound, room to build a Carriage House and redevelop the detached two car garage – this Estate is an opportunity of a lifetime.
You might be wondering if the residential zoning supports an additional building on this property. Zoned URL -1 VSD (Urban Residential, View Sensitive District) allows up to 4 units on a single property. The City of Tacoma finalized the rezoning in February of 2025 to allow and encourage higher density. If you are looking to learn more about the City of Tacoma’s zoning, click the link to learn more Home In Tacoma.
Main Floor: Sweeping Views, Modern Kitchen & Bedroom Suite
Inside too, you’ll be captivated by the sweeping views of the Puget Sound and Olympic Mountain Range. The Rhododendrons and Camelia’s stand effortlessly in the backdrop of your picture windows from the living room, foyer and dining room.
Elegant Dining Room – Seating for 12+
The formal dining room is wrapped in green foliage from the garden outside. Original windows create a slightly blurred viewing of the water and deck – a sweet detail reminiscent of times past. The dining room has space to accommodate a table of 12 – 14; let’s gather and enjoy.
Modern Kitchen
When the kitchen was modernized it was done ahead of its time. Two side-by-side Fisher and Paykel ovens, six burner Wolf cook top and warming oven are sure to elevate your prep and hosting style. Newer hardwood floors, open dining nook, sitting space and an abundance of storage creates spaces for you and your guests to enjoy together in style.
Suite on the Main Floor
Down the hall from the kitchen and foyer, you’ll find the Suite on the main floor. The northwest facing windows receive wonderful afternoon lighting. Hardwood floors, tall ceilings and large space; this room functions well as it is. If looking to upgrade, there is plenty of space to do so. Enhance the closet and provide private access to the bathroom. In doing so you’d make this bedroom your primary bedroom on the main floor.
Second Floor: 4 Bedrooms, Deck & Endless views.
“They don’t make ‘em how they used to!”. An old (and overused!) saying, but it rings true. The materials used when this Turn-of-the-Century home was built were raw materials. Likely from old growth trees. According to an article (see below for full article) written in the The News Tribune in September of 1977, this home was built with only the best clear lumber, “there is not a knot in it”. While there is sprucing up in the home to do, the quality of natural materials used, is not available today.
Whale Watching?
The bedrooms are quaint and different in their own way. If you haven’t dreamed of whale watching from your home, start now. Neighbors have seen Orcas and Blue Whales from the comforts of their home.
Unfinished Basement & Floor Plan
The basement is full height and separate outside access. According to the inspection the seller performed, the original galvanized plumbing has been replaced with copper. The electrical panel has been replaced yet most of the electrical system remains ungrounded. Sterling Inspection gave a good rating to the roof and compared it to a 50 year architectural roof. Typically we see 30 year composition roofs installed on homes in the PNW, but as with most things the Thompson’s upgraded, they chose quality over budget.
Desirable Seminary District & Surrounding Community
The Thompson’s Legacy Home sits perched above the Mason Gulch; 39 acres of forested open space in North Tacoma. Seminary District is known for the well maintained, diverse conglomerate of older homes and North Tacoma at large carries the majority of mature trees in Tacoma; A combination that is truly magical. The trees provide its residents with better protection from extreme heat and air pollution. While the property itself has great canopy coverage and green space, walking around the neighborhood you’ll find wonderfully mature landscapes you share with your neighbors as well.
Supreme Privacy
Privacy and quiet are two of the most alluring features of this Estate. This combined with the convenient North Tacoma location and quick proximity to shopping and local businesses, it cannot be overstated the value of having both supreme privacy and convenience. While sitting on your covered deck watching the sunrise, there isn’t a neighbor in sight. Dine al fresco on the back patio while enjoying the afternoon sun – you have wonderful privacy here too. All the while the home is located 1.5 Miles from the Metropolitan Market in Proctor District and Point Ruston’s Public Market.
Have Your Cake and Eat It Too
Premiere City location, abundance of privacy and space, 180 degree views of the Puget Sound and Olympic Mountain Range and immense opportunity to create the lifestyle you’ve been dreaming of.
Historic Document
Ready to Sell Your Home?
Reach out to Tacoma Real Estate Expert, Jenny Wetzel today.
📧 Jennywetzel@windermere.com
📱 253-381-9788
Jenny Wetzel, Realtor and Community Member
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Luxury Advisor
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Military Relocation Specialist (MRP)
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At Home with Diversity Specialist (AHWDS)
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Accredited Buyer Specialist (ABS)
