Builder makes the most of community's natural setting

By Teresa Kenney
Special to New Homes

NORTH BEND -- Located at the foot of Mount Si, Tannerwood could serve as the basecamp for the outdoor recreation of the Puget Sound region. The collection of 31 four- and five-bedroom homes is priced from the high $400,000s.

"Tannerwood is within minutes of some of the greatest outdoor activities [anywhere]," says John Day, the community's builder. "There are hundreds of miles of hiking and mountain-biking trails right in our own backyard, and some of the best fly-fishing is only a minute away.

"No need to pack up your gear and hit the road for an adventure -- here, you literally play where you live," he says.

Homeowner Lincoln Rawlings agrees. He and his wife, Linda, moved to Tannerwood earlier this year. The couple already lived in the North Bend area, but they say their new home places them even closer to the activities they love.

"In and around North Bend there are great hiking and biking trails, and one of the nice things about Tannerwood is we are really close to the Snoqualmie Valley Trail. It used to be a bit of a jaunt for us driving through town, but now it's right here," says Rawlings.

"Part of the reason we like living in the North Bend area is we're big skiers and the Summit at Snoqualmie is less than 25 miles away," says Rob Shogren, who moved with his family to Tannerwood in May. "We also like to do a lot of hiking, hunting and fishing."

Tannerwood includes an acre of open green space positioned to take advantage of the mountain views. Built on oversize lots, the homes feature architectural details like stone accenting, solid 12-by-12-inch columns, and landscaping using pre-existing granite for a rugged, natural aesthetic.

"Most brand-new homes are only about 35 feet wide," Day says. "Our lot sizes give homeowners more outdoor 'breathing space' as well as more indoor living space -- these aren't the small lots you're used to seeing in master-planned communities. And because there are only 31 homes, the neighborhood offers a more quiet and private setting."

Designers incorporated wide front porches, where homeowners can relax and enjoy their outlooks, as well as a variety of adaptable spaces such as bonus rooms and open lofts.

"Our family was growing, so we wanted some additional square footage, and we liked the style of the homes and the upgrades that John Day added," Shogren says. "We liked the flow of the home -- our old home was more broken up. The neighborhood is also nice and open. It doesn't feel cramped -- everyone isn't on top of each other."

Interior finishes include slab granite countertops, stone gas fireplaces with raised hearths, and custom millwork -- including wood-wrapped windows. All of the homes are certified Built Green and feature three-car garages.

Tannerwood is within minutes of North Bend's historic downtown, which features a seasonal farmers market, boutiques, antiques shops, artist studios and cafés. Bargain hunters can check out North Bend Premium Outlets, and nearby Snoqualmie Casino features dining and live music in addition to gaming.