Tacoma Lutheran Retirement Community is adding new features for gardening, recreation and socializing.
Scheduled to be completed in November are the Edwards Plaza with the Arneklev Garden and Chihuly Family Art Center, “which will change our campus for residents now and in the future,” said Robby Lanouette, development specialist for the community’s foundation.
The Arneklev Garden will include paved walkways, raised-bed and ground-level gardening, and a central fountain. Residents have already chosen garden beds for growing flowers, vegetables and herbs.
The Chihuly Family Art Studio, named for glass artist Dale and Leslie Chihuly, will be home to an art studio for classes and projects, a ceramic studio where residents can paint a bowl or mug and fire them in the kiln, a textile/sewing room where blankets can be made for the needy, and a woodworking shop.
The final piece of the project, the Edwards Family Walk, will include a labyrinth leading to a mosaic compass located inside a gazebo. Along the walk will be a water feature and a gathering place for picnics, a glass of wine or visits.
Funding for the project comes from donations by residents, staff, and family and community members. Lanouette said “we are especially grateful” for the Arneklev Family, Dale and Leslie Chihuly, and Bill and Joyce Edwards “for their legacy gifts for this project,” which will benefit Tacoma Lutheran’s 400 residents and the 1,000-plus people who are short-term rehab residents throughout the year.