Washington State

Architecture of the “U” District, Seattle

The University District, bordering the University of Washington campus, is at once eclectic, colorful, nostalgic, utilitarian, funky, and a tad seedy in parts. This exhibit illustrates representative architecture of the “U” District.

 

		Gritty gargoyle, University Manor Apartments, 43rd St NE.
		University Manor Apartments
		Entrance, Wilsonian Apartments, University Way NE. Built as a 5-star hotel in 1923, the ornate structure is considered among the grander residences of the “U” District.
		Lobby, Wilsonian Apartments.
		Interstate 5 over Lake Union inlet. Photographed from the University Bridge.
		Franz Lehwalder housing. Two rustic structures offer quality accommodation and a rare patch of green. The dwelling in view was originally a carriage house in the late 1800s.
		Residence. Built as a single-family home; presently sub-divided into eight flats as per the mailboxes by the door.
		Ranice Apartments, Brooklyn Ave NE.
		Along University Way
		Portage Bay Café
		Helix-Ellipse Apartments. New construction is rising on the periphery of the “U” District.
		View from University Motel Suites
		La Mirada Apartments
		Dick’s Drive-In. Located down the road in Capitol Hill, time appears to have stood still at this classic eatery. The car is a Volvo P1800 Sport Wagon (1971-1973).
		Towards Union Bay. Looking to the southeast, with the University Way commercial area in foreground, dorminated on this block by the Malloy Apartments built in 1928. The University of Washington campus lies beyond, with Union Bay skirting the horizon.
		Apartment building, 42nd St NE.
		Café Allegro. The oldest café in the “U” District, a cozy and at times boisterous hideaway offering patrons a choice of salons.
		Jim’s Cameras, 43rd St NE, features a fascinating selection of older cameras and parts thereof. This grand establishment epitomizes the “back to the Fifties” atmosphere retained in many Seattle neighborhoods.
		University of Washington Plaza. The sole skyscraper in the “U” District, formerly the SafeCo Plaza, constructed in 1975.
		Rooming house
		Alley house
		Apartment building, Brooklyn Ave NE.
		Rainy Seattle morning. Back-alley view from the photographer’s room in the “U” District.

 

Roberta Apartments