University of Washington's Shellhouse Restoration Project
Helping plan the restoration of the old Shellhouse at the University of Washington combines two of my greatest passions, architecture and rowing. I rowed for the University of Washington from 1988 to 1991 and rowing has always had a prominent role in my life. The Shellhouse was home to the crew team from 1918 to 1949 and housed the famous 1936 Olympic Gold Medal winning team featured in the bestselling book, Boys in the Boat.
Originally designed to be a seaplane hangar, the Shellhouse has high soaring ceilings and large windows that let natural light stream in. In the back loft is the workshop, where George Pocock built his world famous racing shells. It was constructed with native Douglas Fir that has patinaed to a rich golden brown. It is hard not to be inspired in such a place!
I am currently on the steering committee charged with raising $14 million dollars to restore the
Shellhouse so that it can continue to serve the University of Washington community for at least another 100 years. It is truly a privilege to be involved with this historic renovation.
