Are you tired of the value-priced wood-frame conversion versus premium priced concrete condo debate?  Maybe you’re looking for something entirely unique like the West Queen Ann High School conversion project? Sitting on the very top of Queen Anne Hill, you can spot the building even while driving on I-5. I did a drive through during one evening, the building presence says it all: majestic, classic old world charm in a quiet location. 

Queen_anne_high_school_2Queen Anne High School has had a long history ever since it was built in 1908. The school was once attended by tens of thousands of students before it closed in 1981. Years later, the School district leased the School and it was converted to an apartment building.

Recently, the school was bought by a west coast developer who specializes in historic restoration and conversion projects. Their objective is to turn it into an upscale, one of a kind condominium but at the same time preserve the building’s historic features. Definitely a unique property!

Here are the types of homes that will be available:
Lofts
One bedroom’s
Two bedroom’s
Town homes

Units feature tall ceilings and oversized windows.

This is a conversion that is worth keeping your eyes on. I contacted the Community Sales Manager, Katie Citron who has been with Miller Condominium Marketing for five years. Miller Marketing is also the marketing company for Cosmopolitan, Madison Lofts, Plaza Del Sol, Windsor Court, Harwood, and Noma Ballard.

Here are the questions I asked and her responses.  Thanks Katie!

1.) How is this conversion different from other conversions on the market right now?

Built in 1909, this Beaux Arts-styled landmark was designed by renowned local architect James Stephen, and possesses a commanding view of the ever-changing Seattle skyline. Now you can own a piece of history without giving up twenty-first century amenities in this amazing once-in-a-generation opportunity.

West_queen_anne_school_3 2.) How would you compare Queen Anne High School with West Queen Anne School which is also a historic landmark conversion?  

The Queen Anne High School is having so much work done on the exterior and the interior of the units. I think the location and views from the top of the hill are one of the most recognizable in the city.

3.) What would be the price per square foot range for your one bedroom and two bedroom units? How did you arrive at that?

We have not released pricing information. Prices will be available this July.

4.) How up to date are the amenities?

We are redoing the roof top courtyard as well as all the common hallways, front entry, and we are adding a lot of landscaping details.

5.) What would you say to buyers who are concern about living so close to the two towers?

The towers are not a part of the QAHS property and would need to be researched by the buyers.

6.) 5 years from now when the sale center is gone, what will be the one thing that is unique about this building that will continue to attract buyers to purchase a resale unit?

I think being able to own a piece of Seattle history with one of the most unique attractions to the building as well as the convenience to downtown.

This conversion will definitely come with a premium. How much more, we’ll see. Stay tuned for more info on prices.

-Wendy

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