The Story
This project began with a question familiar to anyone who has driven through the intersection of NW 100th St and 15th Ave NW: “What is that cute realty building, and what could it be?”
Matthew had wondered this for years, so he was pleasantly surprised when a past client, Ashleigh Root, reached out with a vision to convert that very building into a coffee shop. We jumped at the opportunity to restore a key neighborhood structure, but we knew it would be a challenge. The site was zoned "Neighborhood Residential," which typically prohibits commercial use. We were transparent with Ashleigh about the risks, as there was a chance the change of use would not be approved. However, through perseverance, three separate permit applications, and the support of helpful neighborhood and city staff, we made the project a reality.
The building was originally constructed in 1932 and served as the office that sold the original plats of the Blue Ridge neighborhood. Over the years it changed ownership but continued to be an office space until this project.
Because of the building's non-conforming use status, strict regulations prevented us from adding square footage, with the sole exception of a 41-square-foot addition for an accessible restroom. Our design goal was to preserve the structure's original charm; we maintained the gable roofline (adding a second matching gable), kept the iconic roof signage, and preserved the signature blue exterior.
Inside, fitting the necessary commercial equipment into such a small footprint required precision. We oriented the "back of house" along the south side, freeing up the north side for circulation, retail, and seating. The finishes bring a level of sophistication, utilizing tile floors and wood cabinetry to elegantly disguise the equipment.
This three-year journey was a success due to the dedication of the entire team. We hope you take some time to visit and enjoy it for yourself.
Architectural Design Team: Ryan Adanalian & Matthew Hagen
Interior Design: Hyrel Mathias Interior Design
Landscape Design & Site Contractor: Sage & Stone
Structural Engineer: Carter Quinn Norlin
Civil Engineer: Rain City Civil
Geotechnical Engineer: Geotech Consultants
Traffic Engineer: TENW
Contractor: Orr Restoration & Remodel
Photographer: Kara Mercer
Before & After
Location: Seattle, WA
Environment
Climate Zone:
4C, Marine
Ecoregion (EPA):
2f Central Puget Lowland
