Home & Garden Business Reviews
Review of Uptown Antique Market in Richland, WA based on an interview with the owner, Wendy, and real customer reviews.
A standout in the home-repair world of the Tri-Cities
When homeowners across the Tri-Cities start talking about major remodels or custom homes, one name quietly comes up again and again: Eden Mountain Contracting LLC, doing business as Eden Mountain Homes. Based in Pasco and serving the Tri-Cities and Columbia Basin, owner-builder Matthias (“Matt”) Spurgeon has built a reputation for thoughtful, highly personal projects — the kind of structural additions, whole-home remodels, and custom builds that transform how families live in their homes. From Commercial Mega-projects to Personal, Hand-Built Homes Matt's path to residential building started with a love of design. In high school he planned on studying architecture, but at BYU he discovered construction management instead — and never looked back. After graduating in construction management, he spent roughly 14 years managing large commercial projects, first in Las Vegas and then with a major contractor in the Tri-Cities area. In 2019, he made the leap and founded Eden Mountain Contracting LLC to focus on his true passion: homes. That commercial background shows up in the way he runs projects today — comfortable with complexity, calm around engineering challenges, and very at-home coordinating big, multi-trade jobs. But instead of distant corporate clients, he’s now working directly with families, in their kitchens, living rooms, and backyards. What Eden Mountain Actually Builds Eden Mountain Homes isn’t chasing small patch jobs. Spurgeon focuses his time and team on substantial, high-impact projects: Whole-house remodels Large additions and structural changes (taking out load-bearing walls, reconfiguring layouts, major expansions) Custom new homes (typically about one ground-up home per year) Select light commercial and tenant improvements around the Tri-Cities Online profiles and permit records back this up: Eden Mountain Contracting is listed for kitchen, bath, basement and whole-home remodels on BuildZoom and Houzz, and appears regularly as contractor of record on local commercial remodel permits in Richland and Kennewick. For homeowners, that means you’re working with a contractor who’s very comfortable when your project goes beyond “paint and new cabinets” into “move this wall, raise this ceiling, and make this space actually work.” “The World Is Their Option”: A Truly Custom Approach Ask Spurgeon what sets Eden Mountain apart, and he doesn’t talk about being the cheapest or the fastest. Instead, he talks about: No cookie-cutter designs. He dislikes one-size-fits-all plans and prefers to treat each project as a unique design problem. Client-driven ideas. Clients work directly with him from start to finish, and he encourages them to bring their ideas, inspiration, and quirks to the table. Budget-aware creativity. His mantra on projects is essentially: the world is your option; let’s see what we can realistically do within your budget. That client-first philosophy shows up in how his business actually grows: Eden Mountain Homes does almost no traditional advertising . Nearly all work comes from referrals and repeat clients — people telling friends and family about the experience of working with him. Houzz, one of the main platforms homeowners use to research remodelers, lists Eden Mountain Contracting with a 5-star rating and describes the company as one that “makes your project as personal as it is to you,” specializing in custom homes, residential remodels, and additions. Licensed, Vetted, and in the Top 10% of Washington Contractors For big projects, homeowners are right to look beyond pretty photos and check credentials. Eden Mountain Contracting holds an active Washington State construction contractor license and general contractor license, with a BuildZoom score of 103 — placing the company in the top 10% of over 128,000 licensed contractors in Washington. Additional credibility markers: Home Builders Association of Tri-Cities member since 2022, listed both as a custom single-family builder and as a remodeler (including kitchen and bath). Listed in multiple local business and contractor directories, including the Chamber of Commerce and D&B. Active on major project-driven platforms like Houzz, where homeowners can see project photos and reviews. Permits published in Tri-Cities Business News and county databases show Eden Mountain frequently handling commercial remodels and residential additions around the region — a good sign that they’re trusted on both sides of the residential/commercial line. Building Homes and Relationships If there’s a single phrase that sums up Eden Mountain Homes, it’s the company slogan: “Building homes and relationships to last a lifetime.” Matt talks about this as more than a tagline. He describes his best projects as ones where he and the homeowner genuinely become friends — where the relationship continues long after the last nail is driven. When you invite a builder into your home for months at a time, you’re not just buying craftsmanship; you’re inviting someone into your daily life. Spurgeon leans into that responsibility instead of shying away from it, seeing every project as both a construction contract and a long-term relationship. Small Team, High Involvement Like many quality-focused builders, Spurgeon has deliberately kept his crew lean — currently just himself and one other employee, supplemented with trusted trades. That smaller size is part of why clients consistently describe him as: Easy to communicate with Highly responsive Hands-on and present throughout the project Because he’s not running multiple big crews, he stays deeply involved in each job. Clients aren’t shuffled between sales staff, project managers, and foremen — they work directly with the owner who bears his name on every project. The trade-off, of course, is that he’s selective about what he takes on. Eden Mountain tends to focus on fewer, larger, more involved projects rather than trying to do every small job that comes along. Navigating Costs, COVID, and the “HGTV Effect” Starting a construction business in 2019 meant Spurgeon walked directly into the storm of COVID, supply chain chaos, and sharp price increases in materials. Those pressures still shape conversations today. He’s honest about the realities of current construction costs and often finds himself resetting expectations for homeowners whose mental budget is anchored in prices from 5–10 years ago — or from TV shows that remodel entire homes for what now amounts to a high-end cabinet package. Instead of hiding those challenges, Matt focuses on transparent communication : explaining why something costs what it does, helping clients prioritize where to invest, and encouraging them to compare bids so they can see that his pricing is in line with the current market and the quality he delivers. Looking Ahead: Spec Homes and Smarter Systems Eden Mountain isn’t standing still. Over the next few years, Spurgeon has set several goals: Grow his team with employees who share his quality and customer-service mindset Add speculative (“spec”) homes — building and designing homes first, then offering them for sale — to smooth out workflow so he can keep a consistent crew busy year-round Leverage technology and AI to stay ahead of the curve He’s already seen homeowners show up with AI-generated concept plans, and he’s committed to staying in front of that curve rather than being surprised by it. The Bottom Line For Tri-Cities homeowners dreaming about a major remodel, a transformative addition, or a truly custom home — especially those who want a builder who: Embraces complex, structural projects Treats the project as personally as the homeowner does Keeps you working directly with the owner from start to finish Is licensed, vetted, and well-reviewed online Eden Mountain Homes (Eden Mountain Contracting LLC) is a strong name to have on the shortlist. This is not a high-volume, cookie-cutter builder. It’s a hands-on, relationship-driven company where your project — and your experience — matter as much as the finished photos.
Mac's Garden Center: Where Green Thumbs and Good Vibes Grow in Pasco A Gardener's Paradise in the Heart of Pasco There's a place in Pasco where the air is fragrant with the scent of blooming flowers, where the sun filters through the leaves of thriving trees creating dappled patterns on the ground, and where the friendly chatter of fellow gardeners creates a symphony of community and shared passion. This green oasis is Mac's Garden Center, a beloved local institution that has been helping the Tri-Cities blossom, grow, and flourish for over 35 years. Founded in 1987 by the passionate and incredibly knowledgeable Rick Perez, Mac's has grown from a small plant shop with big dreams into a sprawling nursery and home-and-garden store that's a true paradise for anyone with a green thumb or even just a desire to add a little more green to their life. But Mac's is so much more than just a place to buy plants; it's a place to learn, to be inspired, to get your hands dirty, and to connect with a vibrant community of people who share a deep love for all things green and growing. The mission here is simple, beautiful, and deeply meaningful: to cultivate a vibrant community by promoting eco-friendly gardening practices and native plants that thrive in our unique climate. It's a philosophy that's woven into the very fabric of the place, and you can feel it the moment you step through the gates. From the educational signage to the knowledgeable staff to the carefully curated selection of plants, everything at Mac's reflects a commitment to sustainable, responsible, and joyful gardening. A Bountiful Selection and Expert Advice Customers rave about the absolutely incredible variety of plants at Mac's. Whether you're looking for a splash of seasonal color with some vibrant annuals and perennials, starting your own vegetable patch to grow your own food, searching for that perfect statement shrub to anchor your landscape, or hunting for rare and unusual specimens to add to your collection, you'll find it here. The displays are always healthy, thriving, and beautifully arranged, a testament to the care and expertise of the staff who tend to them daily. And speaking of the staff, they're the real gems of Mac's. Many people say that the employees are not just knowledgeable about plants and gardening but also incredibly friendly, patient, and always willing to go the extra mile to help you find exactly what you're looking for. They'll help you select the perfect plants for your specific space, taking into account factors like sun exposure, soil type, water availability, and your personal aesthetic preferences. They'll give you expert advice on landscaping projects, from simple container gardens to complete yard makeovers. And they'll share their passion for gardening with a genuine smile and enthusiasm that's absolutely contagious. The Personal Touch That Makes All the Difference It's this personal touch that sets Mac's apart from the big-box stores where you're lucky to find anyone who can tell you which end of the plant goes in the ground. Here, you're not just a customer or a transaction; you're a fellow gardener, a neighbor, a friend. The staff takes the time to get to know you and your garden, and they're always happy to share their wisdom, their experiences, and their hard-won knowledge to help you succeed. They remember what you bought last time, they ask how your tomatoes are doing, and they genuinely care about your gardening journey. And with competitive pricing that often beats the big-box retailers, you can be sure you're getting the best value for your money. Many people say that they're pleasantly surprised to find that Mac's prices are often lower than the chain stores, especially when you factor in the superior quality of the plants and the invaluable expertise you receive. It's a win-win for your garden and your wallet, and it's another reason why loyal customers keep coming back season after season, year after year. More Than Just a Nursery Mac's is a true one-stop shop for all your gardening needs. From beautiful pottery and planters in every size and style to high-quality soils and amendments, organic fertilizers, and all the tools and supplies you need to keep your garden thriving, you'll find everything under one roof. And with a strong focus on locally sourced plants, you can feel good about supporting regional growers, reducing your environmental impact, and getting plants that are already adapted to our local climate and growing conditions. The nursery's layout is an absolute joy to explore. Shaded aisles burst with color in the spring and summer, filled with hanging baskets, flowering plants, and lush foliage. The yard is filled with fruit trees that will provide you with fresh harvests for years to come, evergreen shrubs that add year-round structure to your landscape, and shade trees that will grow with your family. You'll even find rare and endangered plant species, a testament to Mac's commitment to biodiversity and conservation. It's not just about selling plants; it's about preserving our natural heritage and promoting ecological responsibility. A Classroom for Gardeners of All Levels But Mac's is more than just a place to shop; it's a place to learn and grow as a gardener. Educational signage throughout the nursery provides valuable information about plant care, water requirements, and growing tips. Workshop announcements encourage you to deepen your knowledge about everything from composting and water-wise landscaping to creating pollinator-friendly gardens that support bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. The staff is always happy to share their knowledge, answer your questions, and help you become a more confident and successful gardener. Many people say that the advice they've received from the Mac's staff has transformed their gardening experience. They've learned how to select plants that bloom in succession, providing color from spring through fall. They've discovered how to create habitat for beneficial wildlife, turning their gardens into thriving ecosystems. They've mastered the art of water-wise gardening, creating beautiful landscapes that don't require constant irrigation. This educational component is what sets Mac's apart and what keeps customers coming back not just to buy plants but to continue their gardening education. The Sunny Hill Market: A Celebration of Local And for a true taste of the local community and the bounty it produces, be sure to check out the Sunny Hill Market, a seasonal farmers market that showcases produce and plants grown by local farmers and community gardeners. It's a wonderful way to support local agriculture, connect with the people who are growing our food, and discover the incredible variety of fruits, vegetables, and plants that thrive in our region. The market embodies the community spirit that makes Mac's so special, bringing together growers and gardeners in a celebration of local food and sustainable agriculture. This integration of retail and community events reinforces the sense that Mac's is more than just a business; it's a gathering place for people who care about where their food comes from, who want to support their neighbors, and who believe in the power of local community. Many people say that they prefer Mac's to big-box stores not just because of the superior selection and service but because of the feeling of supporting a family-owned enterprise that gives back to the community. Sustainable Gardening for Our Unique Climate The Tri-Cities region presents unique gardening challenges with its semi-arid climate, hot summers, cold winters, and limited rainfall. Mac's Garden Center specializes in helping gardeners navigate these challenges with plants and practices that work with our climate rather than against it. The emphasis on drought-tolerant species, native plants, and water-wise landscaping isn't just environmentally responsible; it's also practical and cost-effective. By choosing plants that are adapted to our conditions, you'll spend less time watering, less money on your water bill, and less effort maintaining your garden. You'll also create landscapes that support local wildlife, require fewer chemical inputs, and contribute to the ecological health of our region. Mac's staff can guide you through the process of creating a beautiful, sustainable garden that reflects your personal style while respecting the natural environment. A Community Rooted in Green Mac's Garden Center is a shining example of a local business that has become a true community hub and gathering place. It's a place where people come together to share their love of gardening, to learn from each other's successes and failures, to swap seeds and cuttings, and to work together to make our community a more beautiful, sustainable, and livable place. Whether you're a seasoned pro with decades of gardening experience or just starting out with your first container of herbs on your apartment balcony, you'll find a warm welcome and a wealth of knowledge at Mac's. The nursery is located at 6711 W. Court St. in Pasco, with convenient hours: Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. You can reach them at (509) 547-8109 or email rick@macsgardencenter.com for special orders, questions, or just to chat about gardening. The staff is always happy to help, whether you're planning a major landscaping project or just need advice on caring for a single houseplant. More Than Plants: A Philosophy of Growth What makes Mac's Garden Center truly special is that it represents more than just a place to buy plants and supplies. It represents a philosophy of growth, sustainability, and community. It's about understanding that gardening is not just a hobby but a way of connecting with nature, with our food sources, with our neighbors, and with the rhythms of the seasons. It's about recognizing that every plant we choose, every gardening practice we adopt, has an impact on our environment and our community. Rick Perez and his team have created a space that honors this philosophy while making it accessible and enjoyable for everyone. They've built a business that succeeds not by maximizing profits but by maximizing value for their customers and their community. They've proven that a local, independent business can thrive by staying true to its values and putting people and planet before profit. Your Garden Awaits Ultimately, Mac's Garden Center thrives because it balances commerce with education, environmental stewardship, and genuine community engagement. The combination of diverse plant offerings, expert guidance, competitive pricing, and a welcoming atmosphere has made the nursery a beloved destination for decades. Whether you're a novice planting your first container of herbs, an experienced landscaper designing an elaborate pollinator habitat, or anywhere in between, Mac's offers the resources, advice, and inspiration you need to succeed. In the Tri-Cities, where gardens must adapt to a challenging semi-arid climate, Mac's Garden Center serves as both an oasis and a classroom, empowering residents to cultivate beauty, sustainability, and abundance in their own backyards. So come on down, get your hands dirty, breathe in the fragrant air, and let the good vibes and green thumbs of Mac's Garden Center inspire you to create the garden of your dreams. Your plants are waiting, and the Mac's family is ready to help you bring your vision to life.