Category: Renovation Updates

 

This building is beloved by many — and for many different reasons. When we began this project years ago, we carefully selected a large and diverse Advisory Committee to represent all the building’s many histories as well as its future users.

Over the past several months, we have engaged in thoughtful dialogue with a wide range of constituents. These conversations have provided invaluable insights into the diverse perspectives surrounding the project that will help ensure that the finished building represents the wide array of viewpoints from individuals who care deeply about the story that will forever inspire our nation.

Many historic preservation projects require the balancing of factors, including legacy, community impact, budget, adaptation to modern building codes, legal requirements and more. We deeply value every member of our community who offered their input, passion and perspective. While there are inevitable differences of opinion, we share a commitment to honoring the rich history of the Shell House, creating a welcoming and functional space and ensuring its long-term sustainability.

Just as with any good crew, we are unique individuals who have learned to row together. Our common cause and careful process have led to the plan that we now embark on. Together, we will ensure that the building — its beams, its rafters and its authentic voice — remain the first and most important storyteller.

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Exterior finishes

We’re pleased to share an exciting milestone in the restoration of the ASUW Shell House: the selection of exterior finishes for the building.

After careful review of historical photographs and consultation with our design teams and the ASUW Shell House Advisory Committee, we have chosen a lighter tan and cream color scheme that more accurately reflects the building’s appearance during its original era of significance.

This decision moves us one step closer to honoring the historic character of the Shell House while creating a welcoming and vibrant space for the future. The lighter palette not only aligns with the building’s storied past — it also enhances its visibility and warmth within the natural surroundings of the Montlake Cut.

Exterior Finish Options

Public records request

You may have received an email on July 2 regarding a public records request (#25-113). We apologize for any confusion this email may have caused.

As a public institution, we are legally bound to comply with these requests; we also have the opportunity to provide third parties notice that their information has been requested so that, if they choose, they can take action to prevent their information from being shared. The request we received initially asked for the names and email addresses for all donors to the ASUW Shell House project. That request has been amended to include only the names of the donors. The University is complying with this request within state guidelines.

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As with any major renovation of a century-old building, unforeseen challenges emerged, from structural reinforcements to updated safety requirements. Every decision in response to these hurdles was made with student safety, long-term usability and fiscal responsibility in mind. These challenges have led to an increased budget to meet base scope.

If you would like to help us fill the gap in funding, a gift to the ASUW Shell House is the most efficient way! Please contact Matthew Brinton, brintonm@uw.edu, to learn more, or click the button below:

Make a Gift

Preserving UW and Olympic History: Conserving the 1936 Rowing Uniforms: UW Libraries Blog
Read about how the UW Libraries Special Collections are working with families of the 1936 Olympic team to preserve these delicate artifacts.

NATIONAL CHAMPIONS: UW Wins IRA Title For 21st Time: Men’s Rowing
Read about the team and watch videos capturing the 21st national title in program history, and the 10th in the past 19 seasons!

2025 Tribal Canoe Journey, July 21–Aug. 5, 2025:  Paddle to Elwha
Read more about the University of Washington’s Shell House Canoe Family.

SAVE THE DATE, Sept. 17, 2025, 9:30 a.m.: ASUW Shell House Groundbreaking
More details on this free public event will be available on the ASUW Shell House website.

A project like the restoration of the ASUW Shell House carries deep emotional connections from across the Northwest. It’s essential to honor the many layers of history embedded here, and the Shell House is uniquely positioned to be the first storyteller. Originally built for planes, later transformed for shells and canoes, this building played a central role in our storied rowing legacy. Now, it’s being reimagined for people — our students and community — to be inspired by its stories and to envision their own futures rooted in possibility and belonging.

We are excited to report that we are nearing the Final Design phase, and have filed both our shoreline and building permits. We are on track to break ground by fall 2025!

As with any major renovation of a century-old building, unforeseen challenges emerged, from structural reinforcements to updated safety requirements, which required us to agree to increase our budget. Even with this increased budget, we had to make difficult choices about design elements and materials, always prioritizing long-term sustainability and functionality. Every choice — from structural reinforcements to accessibility upgrades — was guided by the goal of maintaining the integrity of this historic landmark while ensuring it serves students for generations to come.

Key elements to look forward to seeing:

• The George Pocock shop will remain the central ‘heartbeat of the building,’ enticing visitors upstairs via elevator and stairs to take in a curated diorama of exhibits that bring his innovative shell-building skills to life
  The iconic view to the Montlake Cut from the south side’s hangar doors will once again be the focal point for those inside the building — a view that has been closed off for decades.
• Unseen — but vital to the building’s stabilization — are pilings that go deep into the ground and a new concrete slab and connected footings.
• The naturally formed ‘eves’ that line the east and west walls will also be spaces of history, telling the stories through touchable artifacts and panels that invite learning and inspiration.
• All of the massive original timber columns and trusses will be retained. While structural reinforcement is required with metal bracing at the joints, the design approach minimizes visual impact to the greatest extent possible.
• We’ve listened carefully to a range of passionate perspectives, engaged in a thoughtful and inclusive process, and have broad support and strong momentum moving forward.