Gardens With History

This historic two-and-a-half acre property is the former estate of Seattle pioneers Laurence and Ida Colman. With its graceful home, designed in 1922 by Arthur Loveless, the grounds remain beautiful, park-like, and breathtaking. Over 2,000 species of rhododendron and 80 varieties of trees enliven the 1930 original landscape design by Seattle landscape architect Otto Holmdahl. Since purchasing the property in 2009, Maryanne and David have overseen the careful renovation of many older structures and plantings throughout the gardens, adding English-style borders for high summer color and planting an enviable kitchen garden.

The tree-lined drive follows a gentle curve towards the house. Just beyond the garage step right into the exuberant kitchen garden featuring raised beds with mixed plantings of vegetables and flowers and an English-style mixed border alive with color, texture and variety.

Leaving the kitchen garden, follow the path around the west side of the house where a rose garden is woven into the colorful English-style border. Continue to a sunny brick patio and a series of steps that lead to an elevated terrace festooned with fuchsias and other cool, shade lovers.

Stroll across the grand sweep of lawn taking time to consider the layers of color and structure in the borders as they gradually meet a forested edge. Find a pathway leading to a renovated bridge and reflecting pond where you will want to sit and soak in the cool and calm of this magical space; a true hidden jewel in West Seattle.

Wheelchair accessible.