Converting the 1906 First Church of Christ Scientist in Capitol Hill, may not be the easiest conversion project going on in the Seattle but may be one of the more interesting. The original iconic church was built in 1906 complete with custom molding and plaster work, beautiful stained glass windows and awe inspiring exterior stone work. The church sold for $1.1MM even though the vacant lot could have fetched twice as much. The church parking lot with a smaller footprint was sold for $2.3MM.
What was important to the church members according to the church treasurer, Tom Haak, was the preservation of the site. The developers who bought the condo including Joel Lavin are eager for the challenge posed by the building. The church, which is structurally sound, will require seismic retrofitting. In order to maintain the splendor of the original building, the stained glass dome will be enclosed in a central atrium which will be visible from many of the units.
The ~18 condos will be enclosed within the the existing structure surrounding the dome with the addition of clear windows. With an emphasis on preservation, some of the original white-oak pews will be used as doors, trim and benches for breakfast nooks. The marketing for the new condominium project is being handled by Thompson Team Real Estate Group, who note the community involvement in the projection including the use of focus groups in the designing process.
How do you feel about living in a church?
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I once stayed in an 18th century church that had been converted into a B&B in Scotland. It was very comfortable and made for wonderful lodging. Based on that expereince alone, I would live in a former church.
I think it would be a bit odd to live on hallowed ground. Even Queen Anne HS has a weird feeling due to its institutional past.
This is the one I have been waiting for. Finally, a truly unique project with some historical content. Now that all the good units at Queen Anne Highschool are gone, I have an option again. This website is fantastic. Thank you for maintaining it!
Seems creepy to live in a church. Every action is on holy land.
I have worked and our sonm has lived in the Amos Shinkle
Church in Covington, KY for the last 12 years. The restoration was done by my husband and myself as well as our single son and all his St. X friends. The sanctuary served as my art studio and we made ajustments to the remaining 4000 sq. ft. for Dan’s home. Beautiful space and we feel we saved a landmark. The windows are gorgeous as well as the working organ It was build in 1892.I had always hoped it was haunted, but no. It is poresently for sale at $200,000. Remember it is KY. It is in good shape, but itis over a 100 years old. Check 114 E. 15th St. in Covington Ky on Zillow. We will be there in Oct. to oversee some repairs from IKE, live full time in CA. We love the place, it always inspired my work as the sun came through the stained glass and Dan loved all the high ceilings and space. He lives in Europe now and we all miss it. [email protected]