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University of Washington President Robert J. Jones, novelist Daniel James Brown, and various associates from the ASUW Shell House community convened for a groundbreaking event at the historic structure, which is presently in the concluding phases of adaptive repurposing.
Covering nearly 12,000 square feet, the historic ASUW Shell House is situated mere feet from the northeastern boundary of the Montlake Cut, serving as a symbol of UW’s lasting sense of community, success, and resilience. The refurbishment of the 107-year-old edifice, maintaining its spacious, hangar-like design, is facilitated by public funding and private charitable contributions. The facility will accommodate up to 250 individuals and will be accessible for both student and community use — the finalization of eight years of efforts and $22.5 million in fundraising aimed at readying the iconic structure for its next hundred years.
The Shell House has fulfilled numerous roles over the decades, most notably as the workshop of acclaimed boat-builder George Pocock, who designed racing shells that guided Washington Rowing through eight national championship victories, including the remarkable team that secured Olympic gold in 1936. It was the muse for Brown’s bestselling novel and the film, The Boys in the Boat. Initially constructed as a WWI seaplane hangar, it has most recently functioned as a storage facility for shells and boats. The site is referred to as “Carry a Canoe” in Lushootseed, stəx̌ʷugʷit (stukh-ug-weelth), which has for many years acted as a natural portage utilized by families and tribes.
Post-war, the Navy’s structures were transferred to UW. In August 1919, it was revealed that the majority would be sold and removed. Given that hangars of this kind were deemed temporary constructions to support the Navy’s wartime activities, most were dismantled. Student volunteers and crew members excavated a 1,000-foot trench to lay steam pipes from Lander Hall to warm the expansive space, and when everything was in order, large letters painted above the enormous doors proclaimed “A.S.U.W. Shell House.” Today, it stands as one of only two such wooden hangars remaining and has become a symbol of rowing and UW’s heritage.
“Structures, much like individuals, possess narratives to share,” Brown remarked. “In these turbulent times, we all yearn for instances of collective effort toward a shared ambition. And that encapsulates the essence of ‘The Boys In the Boat’ and this building.”
“Thanks to your support, our campus and community can come together at the water’s edge, honor our collective heritage, and embark on an ambitious future united,” stated Denzil Suite, Vice President of Student Life, whose department oversees the building’s management.
Initiatives for the renovation endeavor commenced in 2016. From the outset, the intention has been for community members to share their insights on conserving the building’s historical essence while adapting it for contemporary use and ensuring its structural soundness — creating an ideal venue for events, programs, and community gatherings. An exhibit celebrating the historic Pocock workshop and the rowing legacy of UW and the Seattle area, along with the restoration of the traditional wood interior and hangar doors, are significant elements.
Numerous facets of the historic conservation were contemplated, including legacy, communal impact, financial constraints, alignment with modern building codes, shoreline enhancements, and legal obligations.
“We are profoundly appreciative to every individual in our community who contributed their insights, enthusiasm, and viewpoints,” UW President Robert J. Jones remarked. “Together, we are not only honoring the extraordinary legacy of the ASUW Shell House but also creating an inviting, utilitarian space that will benefit generations to come and secure its enduring vitality.”
The University established a broad and diverse Advisory Committee to reflect the building’s varied historical narratives as well as its spectrum of future users. Over the past several years, the committee has provided invaluable insights regarding the project. These perspectives will help guarantee that the final structure encompasses a diverse range of viewpoints from those who are deeply invested in the narrative that inspired a nation.
“Grounded in a rich past of gathering and purpose, the emblematic space has long united students, athletes, and the larger community,” UW Foundation Board member Brooks Simpson noted. “It will genuinely be the ‘front dock’ to the UW campus — welcoming students and inviting the public to engage with our rich and intricate waterfront history.”
“Much like any effective crew, we are distinct individuals who have learned to navigate together. Our shared mission and thoughtful process have led us to the plan we now pursue,” former State Senator Mark Mullet commented. Mullet, who had previously been a member of the Senate Ways & Means (budget) committee and the Vice Chair of the Capital Budget, helped secure a $3 million state funding investment for the renovation and adaptive reuse. “Together, we will guarantee that the structure — its beams, its rafters, and its authentic voice — continues to be the primary storyteller.”
The ASUW Shell House was the inaugural UW structure to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places (1975 as the Old Canoe House), and the first UW building to attain Seattle Landmark status (2018). Today, it remains perched atop a culturally significant site — a locus of assembly and movement for generations past, present, and future.
Discover more about the legacy of the ASUW Shell House.
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Editor’s NOTE: Images from the event and 3D renderings (credit: Plomp for Mithun | Sellen) are also accessible online.
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