10 Best Architectural Buildings in Everett, Washington: A Detailed Guide

Everett, Washington, is home to a diverse array of stunning architectural buildings that showcase both historical and modern designs.

From residential masterpieces to commercial landmarks, the city’s architectural scene offers a glimpse into the creativity and expertise of local architects.

Discovering the top architectural buildings in Everett provides insight into the city’s rich design heritage and growth. These structures not only highlight aesthetic beauty but also reflect the cultural and economic development of the area.

Whether you are an architecture enthusiast or simply curious about Everett’s landmarks, exploring these buildings is sure to be a captivating experience.

1. Everett Historic Theatre

The Everett Historic Theatre, located at 2911 Colby Ave in Everett, WA, has been a staple of the community since 1924.

This iconic venue offers a blend of both film and live stage shows.

It boasts beautiful architectural details and original red velvet seats. For more details, visit The Historic Everett Theatre.

2. Imagine Children’s Museum

Imagine Children’s Museum in Everett offers a unique blend of fun and education.

With hands-on exhibits, it keeps children engaged and curious. Features include an airplane cockpit, water play area, and theater stage.

Both locals and visitors appreciate its child-friendly environment and the variety of activities available for hours of entertainment.

3. Wall Street Building

The Wall Street Building, located at 1904 Wetmore Avenue, stands as a prominent feature in Everett’s downtown skyline.

This mirrored structure is not only an architectural highlight but also houses important city offices, including the mayor’s office and the forest service.

Its reflective design adds a modern touch to the city. Visitors can also find intriguing artistic artifacts within the building, making it a unique blend of functionality and cultural interest.

For those interested in its history and current functions, more information can be found here.

4. Pagoda Building

The Pagoda Building in Everett, Washington, stands out with its unique architectural style.

Its design reflects traditional Asian influences, blending seamlessly with modern elements.

Located in the heart of the city, the Pagoda Building serves as a community hub. It hosts various events and activities throughout the year.

The structure’s intricate details and distinctive roof design make it a notable landmark in Everett. The building symbolizes the fusion of cultural heritage and contemporary architecture.

5. Weyerhaeuser Building

The Weyerhaeuser Building in Everett, Washington, is a notable example of English Gothic architecture.

It was designed by Carl Frelinghuysen Gould in 1923. Gould also founded the University of Washington’s architecture program in 1914.

Originally, the building served as the headquarters for the Weyerhaeuser Timber Company.

Its design showcases a variety of local wood species, making it a unique piece of architectural history.

In 1986, the Weyerhaeuser Building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Though it was removed from the register in 2022, it remains an important part of Everett’s history.

6. Everett Station

Everett Station, located in the heart of downtown Everett, Washington, is a major transportation hub.

It serves as a key point for Amtrak, Sounder commuter trains, and regional bus services.

The building’s design is modern and functional, with a large atrium and ample natural light. It includes amenities like a waiting area, retail spaces, and a community college.

Its strategic location and efficient layout make Everett Station an essential part of the city’s infrastructure. The station also highlights practical architecture that prioritizes user experience and connectivity.

7. Van Valey House

The Van Valey House is a notable architectural gem in Everett, Washington.

Built in 1925, this historic building showcases classic Colonial Revival architecture.

Located at 2130 Colby Ave., the house is open to the public. It offers tours on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 11 am to 4 pm.

The Van Valey House is part of the Everett Register of Historic Places, highlighting its historical significance in the community.

8. Everett Public Library

The Everett Public Library is a landmark in downtown Everett. Established on June 10, 1894, it has two branches today.

Designed by Carl Gould, the library at 2702 Hoyt Avenue opened on October 3, 1934. Gould’s work combines traditional and modern styles.

Its 19,000-square-foot building features Tudor Revival elements, including boxed beams in the lobby and oak paneling in the main reading room. For more details, visit the Everett Public Library.

9. Schack Art Center

Schack Art Center is a visual arts hub located in downtown Everett, Washington.

It features gallery exhibits showcasing both local and international artists. Visitors can see a wide range of art styles and mediums.

A unique feature of Schack Art Center is its glassblowing studio. Guests can watch live glassblowing demonstrations, providing an inside look at this captivating art form.

The center is admission-free, making it accessible to everyone.

Special events, workshops, and interactive art activities are also held regularly, making it a dynamic spot for art lovers.

For more information, visit Schack Art Center.

10. Angel of the Winds Arena

Angel of the Winds Arena, located in Everett, Washington, opened in October 2003. It is a multi-purpose sports and entertainment arena.

The arena has 8,149 seats for ice hockey and can expand to 10,000 seats for concerts and other events.

Designed by the Everett Public Facilities District, it is home to the Everett Silvertips of the Western Hockey League.

This venue has hosted a variety of events, from concerts to sports. For more details about visiting, parking, and directions, check the official site.

Architectural Styles of Everett

Everett, Washington boasts diverse architectural styles that reflect its rich history and evolving urban landscape. The city’s buildings showcase Art Deco’s striking geometrical designs, Modernist influences’ minimalist appeal, and Revival Architecture’s throwback to classical elements.

Art Deco

Art Deco in Everett captivates with its bold geometry and decorative elements. Art Deco emerged in the early 20th century, emphasizing intricate designs and symmetry.

Buildings in this style feature strong vertical lines, stepped facades, and extensive use of geometric shapes. Materials like stucco, marble, and polished metals are common.

The architecture often incorporates vivid colors and ornamental details like zigzags, chevrons, and sunbursts.

A notable Art Deco building in Everett is the Everett Theatre. With its decorative facade and historic charm, it exemplifies the beauty and craftsmanship of this style.

Modernist Influences

Modernist Influences in Everett focus on simplicity, function, and minimalism. Modernist architecture emerged in the mid-20th century, stressing the “less is more” philosophy.

Structures have clean lines, open floor plans, and large windows that invite natural light. Materials like concrete, glass, and steel are prominent.

The style often avoids unnecessary decoration, instead highlighting the beauty of raw materials and structural elements.

One example is the Everett Public Library, which uses expansive glass panes and a streamlined design. This building illustrates the practical yet elegant nature of Modernist architecture in the area.

Revival Architecture

Revival Architecture in Everett incorporates elements from classical and historic styles, creating a sense of nostalgia and grandeur. This style became popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, reviving motifs from Gothic, Renaissance, and Colonial architectures.

Revival buildings often display ornate detailing, columns, and pediments. Brick and stone are frequently used, along with elaborate window and door trims.

This approach provides a timeless elegance, reflecting the city’s cultural heritage.

A key example is the Snohomish County Courthouse. Its grand columns and decorative stonework make it a standout piece of Everett’s architectural landscape, showcasing the sophistication and historical depth of Revival Architecture.

Historic Preservation Efforts

Historic preservation in Everett is a significant effort that maintains the city’s unique character and cultural heritage. These efforts are focused on landmark designations and various restoration programs.

Local Landmark Designations

Everett has an active historic preservation program managed by the Everett Historical Commission.

They work to identify and protect buildings and sites of historical significance.

For instance, the city’s Commerce Building, designed by Benjamin Franklin Turnbull, is part of the Hewitt Avenue Historic District and stands as a testament to early 20th-century architecture.

Many structures in Everett have been preserved for their architectural and cultural value, ensuring that the city’s history remains visible and protected.

Restoration Programs

Everett’s restoration programs aim to revitalize historic areas and buildings.

These programs help in maintaining the unique streetscapes and architectural features of the city’s downtown area.

The city’s initiatives include financial incentives and grants to support property owners in restoring and preserving historic buildings.

Projects often focus on restoring original facades, upgrading infrastructures like plumbing and electrical systems, and ensuring buildings meet modern safety standards, all while retaining their historic charm.

The Everett Downtown Historic Preservation Plan highlights many of these efforts, aimed at preserving the rich history and distinctive character of the area.

Impact of Architecture on Everett’s Culture

Architecture in Everett has shaped its cultural identity.

Historic buildings, such as those in the Hewitt Avenue Historic District, reflect the city’s rich past and maintain its charm.

Historic Sites play a crucial role.

For instance, the Weyerhaeuser office building, detailed in the article on Everett’s Wandering Weyerhaeuser Office, highlights the city’s logging industry roots.

Modern architecture also contributes to the city’s culture.

The recent addition of a new building by WSU underscores the focus on education and innovation.

Architecture influences daily life.

People interacting with buildings like the Commerce Building connect with Everett’s history, fostering community pride and continuity.

Architectural diversity is seen in the downtown area.

A mix of old and new builds create a visual narrative of progression and heritage. These structures serve as physical reminders of Everett’s evolution over time.

Community engagement is strengthened through architecture.

Preservation efforts, as highlighted in the Downtown Historic Buildings Assessment & Toolkit, show how locals value their architectural heritage and work to maintain it for future generations.