The 1959 Norton Building designed by Seattle architects Bindon & Wright in consultation with SOM is widely recognized as Seattle’s first modern office tower. On this tour you’ll get to explore the structure of this classic Mid-Century Modern gem and take in the wide-open views of the city. This tour will also take you into the offices of National AIA Firm Award Winning LMN Architects and Coughlin Porter Lundeen Engineers. At the end of the tour, guests will learn more about the history of the building and enjoy refreshments at LMN. This tour will be led by Susan Boyle, Principal of BOLA Architecture + Planning, an expert in historical and mid-century modern architecture and design.  Boyle is an active member of the local chapter of DoCoMoMo WeWa (Documentation and Conservation of the Modern Movement), a past board member and president of SAF, and a former member and chair of Seattle’s Landmark Preservation Board. 

“The Norton Building is a highly significant example of International Style architectural design… considered a highly innovative example of modern building technology due to its composite steel and concrete structural system and curtain-wall design. Furthermore, it is believed to have been the first building over six stories in height constructed in the United States to incorporate pre-stressed and post-tensioned concrete structural members.” From the Landmarks Preservation Board designation document.

About the Hosts:

Coughlin Porter Lundeen specializes in structural, civil, and seismic engineering throughout the Pacific Northwest. The firm relocated to the Norton Building in 2014, attracted by its elegant, modern profile. You’re invited to tour the firm’s office on 9, which honors the building’s history through exposed concrete and industrial finishes, and present extraordinary views of the waterfront and Pioneer Square.

Photo: Compliments of Roger Williams