The kitchen is a cornerstone in any home. It’s where we cook dinner and where we gather with friends and family for holidays. Everyone wants a beautiful kitchen, but remember, this is a functional space, as well. Choose finishes and materials that will … read more

The power of a well-designed landscape is magical. But the long, narrow piece of grassy land sloping quickly toward the waterfront offered little magic to the imagination of Peggy and Bill Fox when they first laid eyes on the property in 1987. The … read more

Mention Gig Harbor to anyone who doesn’t live here, and if they are at all familiar with this little town, they know about the Tides Tavern. The iconic watering hole and waterside dining spot has been a favorite for locals and visitors alike … read more

On the cover of Craig and Jen Dolezal’s wedding book is a quote by novelist Ivan Doig: “Life is wide. There’s room to take a new run at it.” These words to live by have layers of meaning for the couple, who came … read more

Simplicity has a timeless allure. Perhaps farmhouses derive their popularity from that simplicity that piques memories of a simpler time and place called home. But as Chris and Julie Anne Madson discovered, simplicity takes a serious commitment. They made choices, sat with them … read more

Enter the brightly lit studio of Gig Harbor artist Mardie Rees and you might find her working on a larger-than-life sculpture honoring the founder of a Canadian school, a World War II memorial to U. S. Marine Raiders or some other high-profile commission. … read more

Many gardeners dream of sunshine, of borders overflowing with flowering perennials and sun-loving shrubs. This especially holds true for people who are moving to the Puget Sound area from the sunny states of California, Arizona and others. Faced with the gorgeous and tall … read more

Simply defined, a garden is a collaboration between nature and people. Plants cannot be willed to do what you want. They must be treated as partners and given what they need for water, light, soil, climate and so on. In return, gardens will … read more

High school sweethearts Mark and Gail Westin enjoy the views of both the snow-capped Olympics and the waters of Hood Canal from the oversized windows of their forever home. Having recently celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary, they describe the contentment they feel in … read more