Originally constructed in 1908 by the Danish Brotherhood, Washington Hall is one of Seattle’s most valuable resources as a community gathering place in the Squire Park neighborhood. When the building was put up for sale in 2007, it had fallen into so much disrepair that it was in danger of demolition. Historic Seattle acquired the landmark to revitalize the neighborhood and reintroduce the building as a space for community arts and cultural organizations.
Restored the historic character of the building by rebuilding the earthquake-damaged features and protecting them against damage during future seismic events. Following a complete seismic evaluation, the first phase of the renovation project consisted of minor improvements to make the building safe for use again. Voluntary seismic upgrades included the addition of plywood sheathing to the existing stud walls and installing connections at the base and top of the walls.
Applied advanced techniques to create a contour map of the damaged elements, which allowed us to locate the most severely damaged areas. The second phase involved the roof replacement and restoration of the south elevation where the masonry veneer was in poor condition and nearly collapsed in some locations after the Nisqually earthquake.
Together with a masonry contractor, we investigated the existing conditions and completed a 3-D laser scan of the veneer to develop a cost-effective renovation plan. Removal of the brick masonry, repairs to the water damaged timber framing, and additional plywood sheathing provided seismic strengthening. The damaged brick was rebuilt with wall anchors, reducing life safety risks during future seismic events.
Added an elevator, making the building fully accessible for the first time in its history. The third and final phase brought the building into compliance with City of Seattle standards for Substantial Alteration. Other improvements – addition of a stair, new fire service, and reattaching an ornamental fire escape – completed the full restoration.
Closely collaborated with the Lydig team to design solutions that addressed the structural deficiencies and incorporated constructability concerns. The team navigated difficult items like foundation underpinning in the basement for the new elevator as well as leveling and strengthening an existing landmarked stair.
Courtesy of Lydig Construction and Tim Rice Architectural Photography
