Rooms With a View

About

Built in 1926, our Germanic Cottagestyle residence is the model home of the Washington Highlands in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin—both the house and neighborhood are on the National Historic Register. Our home for the past 27 years serves as a beautiful backdrop to our evolving garden oasis, which we transformed from a steep hill into a terraced garden filled with diverse plant life and themed areas. As you wander through our gardens, you’ll first encounter the front yard, where a stunning Lannon stone retaining wall and a meticulously trimmed yew hedge set the tone. This space reflects the original vision of Werner Hegemann, who helped develop the field of city planning, and Elbert Peets, a landscape architect, who jointly designed the Washington Highlands. This garden features a vibrant mix of textures, heights, and colors from annuals, perennials, and shrubs, ensuring a beautiful and diverse display throughout the seasons. Venture a bit further into our hidden garden, anchored by a magnificent 99-year-old state champion ginkgo tree. This area features small yard sculptures and a subtle water feature that add architectural interest without overpowering the natural lines of the garden. The rich tapestry of shrubs and perennials invites exploration and contemplation. Take a moment to relax on the charming deck, where you can enjoy views of both the hidden garden and the surrounding greenery. Just beyond, you’ll find the woodland retreat, dominated by another 99-year-old state champion—a copper beech tree. This secluded area offers a perfect spot to unwind and appreciate the beauty of nature. As you stroll through these beautiful spaces, you’ll discover not only the diversity of plant life but also the joy and passion that we have poured into each area. Our gardens are ever-evolving, reflecting our love for nature and the rich history of our home. We invite you to join us on this journey through our “Rooms with a View.” We can’t think of a better way to celebrate the upcoming Centennial of our beloved home than to share it with Open Days’ visitors.

This garden’s estimated size is 1/4 acre.

2025 Open Days: Saturday, July 19 and Sunday, July 20

Hours: 10-12, 12-2, 2-4