September 17, 2025
University of Washington breaks ground on ASUW Shell House renovation
University of Washington President Robert J. Jones, author Daniel James Brown, and other members of the ASUW Shell House community gathered for a groundbreaking ceremony at the historic building, which is undergoing final stages of adaptive reuse.
Spanning approximately 12,000 square feet, the historic ASUW Shell House is located just feet from the northeast edge of the Montlake Cut and stands as a testament to UW’s enduring spirit of community, achievement and perseverance. The renovation of the 107-year-old building, preserving its open, hangar-style layout, is made possible by public funding and private philanthropic support. The building will seat up to 250 people, be available for both student and public use — the culmination of eight years of work and $22.5 million in funds raised in order to prepare the iconic structure for its next century.
The Shell House has served many purposes over the years, most famously as the site of the workshop of legendary boat-builder George Pocock, who crafted racing shells that carried Washington Rowing through eight national championship wins including the legendary team that captured Olympic gold in 1936. It served as the inspiration behind Brown’s bestselling book and the movie, The Boys in the Boat. Originally built as a WWI seaplane hangar, it most recently has been used as a place to store shells and boats. The location is known as “Carry a Canoe” in Lushootseed, stəx̌ʷugʷit (stukh-ug-weelth) which for many years served as a natural portage used by families and tribes.
After the war, the Navy’s buildings were turned over to UW. In August 1919 it was announced that most would be sold and removed. Since hangars of this type were considered temporary structures to support the Navy’s war effort, most were demolished. Student volunteers and crew members dug a 1,000-foot trench to carry steam pipes from Lander Hall to heat the cavernous space, and when all was ready, large letters painted above the huge doors spelled out “A.S.U.W. Shell House.” Today, it remains one of only two such wooden hangars still standing and has become an icon of rowing and UW’s history.
“Buildings, like people, have stories to tell,” Brown said. “In these fractured times, we all crave examples of people pulling together for some kind of common goal. And that is really what the story of ‘The Boys In the Boat’ and this building are all about.”
“Because of your support, our campus and community can unite on the water’s edge, honor our shared legacy and launch a bold future together,” said Denzil Suite, Vice President of Student Life, whose division oversees the building’s operations.
Planning for the renovation project began in 2016. From the beginning, the goal has been for members of the community to contribute ideas for preserving the building’s historic identity, while adapting it for modern use and ensuring its structural integrity of its facilities — making it an ideal space for events, programs and community gatherings. An exhibit honoring the historic Pocock shop and rowing legacy of the UW and the Seattle region, together with the restoration of the historic wood interior and hangar doors are key features.
Many aspects of the historic preservation were considered, including legacy, community impact, budget, adaptation to modern building codes, shoreline improvements and legal requirements.
“We are deeply grateful to every member of our community who shared their input, passion and perspective,” UW President Robert J. Jones said. “Together, we are not only honoring the remarkable history of the ASUW Shell House, but also shaping a welcoming, functional space that will serve generations to come and ensure its long-term vitality.”
The University established a large and diverse Advisory Committee to represent the building’s many different histories as well as its variety of future users. Over the past several years, the committee has provided valuable perspectives surrounding the project. These perspectives will ensure that the finished building incorporates a wide array of viewpoints from individuals who care deeply about the story that inspired a nation.
“Rooted in a rich history of gathering and purpose, the iconic space has long brought students, athletes and the broader community together,” UW Foundation Board member Brooks Simpson said. “It will truly be the ‘front dock’ to the UW campus — greeting students and welcoming the public to experience our rich and complex waterfront history.”
“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,” former State Senator Mark Mullet said. Mullet, who previously served on the Senate Ways & Means (budget) committee and as Vice Chair of the Capital Budget, helped to secure $3 million in state funding investment for the renovation and adaptive use. “Together, we will ensure that the building — its beams, its rafters and its authentic voice — remain the first and most important storyteller.”
The ASUW Shell House was the first UW building to be placed on the National Register of Historic Places (1975 as the Old Canoe House), and the first UW building to become a Seattle Landmark (2018). Today, it continues to sit atop a culturally significant site — a place of gathering and movement for generations past, present and future.
Learn more about the history of the ASUW Shell House.
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Editor’s NOTE: The 3D renderings credit: Plomp for Mithun | Sellen) are also available online. Photos from the event are courtesy of Tara Brown Photography.
Tag(s): ASUW Shell House • boys • Robert J. Jones
