Seattle Times Building

The Seattle Times Building has been a fixture in Seattle’s skyline for almost eight decades. Located in the heart of downtown Seattle, the building was designed by the renowned architect Victor Steinbrueck and completed in 1931. It was the headquarters of the Seattle Times newspaper until the paper relocated to a new location in 2011. Today, the building stands as a testament to the city’s rich history and architectural heritage.

The Seattle Times Building is a fine example of Art Deco architecture. The building’s distinctive style reflects the optimism and confidence of the time it was built. The building’s façade features a series of geometric patterns, intricate relief sculptures, and stylized motifs that are typical of Art Deco designs.

The building’s interior is equally impressive. The lobby is adorned with marble floors and walls, sweeping staircases, and breathtaking murals painted by the renowned artist Alexander Kanoldt. The murals depict scenes from Seattle’s history, landscapes, and industries, and are considered some of the finest examples of Art Deco paintings in the country.

One of the most striking features of the Seattle Times Building is its stunning clock tower. Rising 110 feet above the street, the tower is topped by a magnificent copper dome that shines in the sun. The clock faces, which are made of opal glass and surrounded by a copper frame, are illuminated at night, making the building a beacon in the city’s skyline.

In addition to its architectural significance, the Seattle Times Building has played an important role in the city’s cultural and social life. The building’s auditorium was a popular venue for concerts, speeches, and public events. Famous personalities, including President Franklin D. Roosevelt, have given speeches at the auditorium.

During the 1960s, the Seattle Times Building was the scene of some of the city’s most significant social and political movements. It was the headquarters of the anti-Vietnam war movement and was the site of many protests and demonstrations.

Despite its significance, the Seattle Times Building came close to being demolished in the 1980s. However, a group of concerned citizens, led by Victor Steinbrueck, successfully lobbied to save the building from destruction. The building was designated a historic landmark in 1989, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

Today, the Seattle Times Building stands as a symbol of the city’s past, present, and future. The building has been renovated and transformed into a modern office space that combines the building’s historic features with contemporary design elements. The clock tower and the murals have been restored to their original glory, and the building’s interior has been updated to meet the needs of modern businesses.

Visitors to the Seattle Times Building can enjoy the building’s historic features and take in stunning views of the city from the top of the clock tower. The building’s lobby is open to the public, and visitors are welcome to explore the murals and the architecture of the building.

In conclusion, the Seattle Times Building is more than just a historic landmark; it is an integral part of Seattle’s culture and identity. Its distinctive Art Deco architecture, stunning clock tower, and important role in the city’s social and political history make it a unique and treasured piece of Seattle’s skyline. As the city continues to grow and evolve, the Seattle Times Building remains a reminder of the city’s rich past and a beacon of hope for its future.