Former ice warehouse is transformed into most unique large-scale event space in the region
Block 41 is downtown Seattle’s newest and most exciting private event venue. Located in the heart of Belltown, the renovated 1927 former ice warehouse offers three discrete indoor spaces on two levels, plus a landscaped outdoor courtyard. In total, there is 13,000 square feet of functional space on two levels.
“Block 41 is unlike anything else in downtown Seattle. I knew we had a special opportunity the moment I walked in the door,” said Dan Temkin, owner and developer of Block 41. “We have big open spaces, exposed brick, and massive Douglas fir beams that would be impossible to replicate today. We have a great design that honors the history while also providing the best in modern building and event technology. We are excited to host a great mix of events for corporate clients and private weddings, but we are also eager to support our vast non-profit community, especially in the arts.”
Award-winning firm Graham Baba Architects, along with other local artists and craftsmen, collaborated to repurpose this vintage industrial building into a unique and elegant multi-purpose venue. Block 41 combines the best of old and new with massive old-growth timber, exposed brick walls, and vintage car decking that merges gracefully with blackened steel, leather column wraps, and cutting-edge building systems.
Block 41’s three indoor spaces – The Bert & Tot Ballroom, The Musings Gallery, and The Ewing Theatre – offer flexibility for a wide range of event types and sizes, from intimate gatherings of under 100 guests to large events for over 800. And the Courtyard, with its large deck, outdoor loading dock and living green wall, allow events to spill out of doors when the weather permits.
“There is no private event space in downtown Seattle like Block 41,” said Lisa Hoonan, general manager, and industry veteran who brings more than 20 years of global event management to the venue. “In size, sophistication, convenience and space options, it is a state-of-the art facility purposefully designed to be an 
event space in a very sophisticated market.”
Architect Jim Graham of Graham Baba Architects was tasked with repurposing a 1927 industrial building, a former carriage garage and ice warehouse among other things, into a flexible exciting event space embellished with several handcrafted sculptural pieces. These are deftly integrated into a skillful design that breathes fresh life into the building while preserving historical elements of its past.
“The character, age, and rawness of the building are all great assets for an event venue,” said Graham. “To showcase those features, we stripped the building to its bones to create a simple yet expressive backdrop for parties, weddings, fundraisers, educational lectures, and music performances. It’s perfect for any event.”
Block 41 offers five catering companies including Tom Douglas Catering, Cameron Catering, Foodz Catering, Kasper’s Catering and Lisa Dupar Catering. There is also a carefully procured list of vendors to assist with event rentals, valet, photographer, florists, audio visual and décor for any event.
Block 41 is located at 115 Bell Street in Seattle, Wash. Call 206-347-0541 or visit www.block41.com for more information.
