Garfield High School Historic Renovation Project - Seattle, WA

Overview

Restoration and Expansion Rather Than Replacement

Historic schools have a central place in the lives of their communities that can be compromised when they are replaced rather than preserved. Originally built in 1923, Seattle’s Garfield High School has a rich, multi-generational community history and to support enrollment growth and changes to programs and instructional delivery, the district opted for a comprehensive rehabilitation rather than replacement of this iconic architectural gem.

Celebrating community legacy

With celebrity alumni including musicians Quincy Jones and Jimi Hendrix, and several national sports figures, the district, stakeholders and community sought to preserve history, enhance the overall educational program and perpetuate Garfield’s tradition of excellence.

Rehabilitating the historic school and adding new space

The design included a comprehensive rehabilitation of the three-story 170,800 square foot historic three-story structure and a new 84,000 SF arts and athletics addition.

Repurposed elements preserve character

Historic architectural interior features were salvaged and repurposed to preserve the school’s character; and the building exterior was cleaned, repaired and restored, including the historic wood windows that were repaired or replicated as necessary to maintain the building’s exterior historic integrity.

Blending the old with the new

A stand-alone 84,000 SF addition was integrated onto the small in-city site to support performing arts and athletic programs.

Building on a legacy of excellence

The contemporary yet complementary addition houses the sophisticated, state-of-the-art, 600-seat Quincy Jones Performing Arts Center and accompanying music and theater support spaces.

Sports & athletics programs get new space

The addition also houses the school’s athletic program including a new 1,800-seat competition gymnasium and program support elements that support the school’s recognized, long-standing excellence in sports and athletics.

Community-based youth services on site

A teen health and community services center operated by the City’s parks district was also accommodated in the addition, making it convenient, safe and accessible to students.