Building history · Pioneer Square
How a historic Pioneer Square building was prepared, restored, and opened as public galleries and working artist studios.
A building put back to work
The restoration kept the brick, columns, tall windows, and daylight that give the building its Pioneer Square character. The new work made those floors useful again: public galleries for seeing serious art and studios where artists can make it.
The work, in order
August 2025
Before the artists arrived, the upper floors were still open and unfinished. This walkthrough records the gallery plan, a movable-wall prototype, future work areas, the skylights, and the rooms being prepared for daily studio life.
Spring 2026
Framing, drywall, new windows, ventilation, bathrooms, and support spaces turned the shell into a place that could welcome artists and the public.
Galleries + studios
Exhibition floors were finished for paintings, antiques, and Seattle history. Upstairs, the plan became working studios for Seattle Prize fellows, commissioned artists, and experienced-artist workshops.
Open to the public
The completed center joins museum objects, galleries, films, and working artists in one building. This tour records the public experience after the long setup.
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