Seattle is a city where renters can find whatever kind of apartment suits their taste. Whether it be luxury high-rises or historic buildings that have been around since the early 1900s, you can find it in Seattle.
In this article we’ll look at five unique and historic Seattle apartments. From vintage facades to quirky layouts, these apartments are anything but ordinary. Live in history and comfort in one of these apartments in Seattle:
Publix
- Neighborhood: Chinatown
- Rent Range: $1,355–$1,635/month
- Bedrooms/Bathrooms: Studio–3 bedroom/1–2 bathrooms
Situated in Chinatown, the Publix has been an iconic part of the neighborhood since it was erected as a hotel in 1928. Its character and significance have been preserved, although the building was renovated in 2016.
Every time you come home, you’ll pass by the Historic Chinatown Gate that sits right next to the Publix. The historic lobby stands true to its past with beautiful wood and marble detailing. Surrounding the lobby are the shops and restaurants that make up the street level.
Sixth & Pine Building
- Neighborhood: Downtown Seattle
- Rent Range: $1,370–$1,675/month
- Bedrooms/Bathrooms: Studio–1 bedroom/1 bathroom
Live in a piece of history at the Sixth & Pine Building while being surrounded by the excitement of Downtown Seattle. This 10-story building was built in 1923 and was formerly the Shafer Building, built by architect James Blackwell.
With its long history and status, it was placed on the National Register of Historic Buildings in 1995. A prime example of the terra-cotta of the 1920s combined with the Chicago Skyscraper style, the Sixth & Pine Building continues to showcase the history of Seattle.
Louisa Hotel
- Neighborhood: Chinatown
- Rent Range: $900–$1,700
- Bedrooms/Bathrooms: Studio–1 bedroom/1 bathroom
Opened in 1909, the Louisa Hotel has had a host of names and uses, from welcoming immigrants arriving in Seattle to work in Alaskan canneries to housing nightclubs and bars in the basement. The building underwent renovation in 2019 and reopened with street-level shops and restaurants with apartments on top.
On the east wall of the building sits the Seattle Historic Landmark of the Chinese Community Bulletin Board. Historic murals were discovered in the building that have been preserved and can now be seen from the street through glass. Located in Chinatown, the mix of historic and modern found in the Louisa Hotel makes it a one-of-a-kind place to live.
Malloy Apartment Homes
- Neighborhood: University District
- Rent Range: $1,360–$2,200/month
- Bedrooms/Bathrooms: Studio–1 bedroom/1 bathroom
Malloy Apartment Homes were built in 1928 in the University District. It is a well-known sight for University of Washington students as it sits right across from campus. The Collegiate Gothic style commonly used around the campus is found in the building as well.
When you enter the building, you’ll pass through the small, brick courtyard to the beautiful recessed main entrance. The white brick of the lobby is accented by wood paneling and vintage fixtures. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into the past at Malloy Apartment Homes.
Trace Lofts
- Neighborhood: Capitol Hill
- Rent: $2,700/month
- Bedrooms/Bathrooms: 1 bedroom/1 bathroom
Trace Lofts is the place to be for renters looking for a historic, industrial style home. As the building is in Capitol Hill, you won't be far from coffee shops or restaurants.
The minute you walk into the lobby of Trace Lofts, you will feel the past uses of the building as a textile factory and monastery. While it was originally built in 1919, Trace Lofts was renovated in 2007. Pieces of the past were incorporated into the new, like the old sewing machine pedals that now display unit numbers.
Find a Historic Apartment with All Your Must-Have Amenities
Historic apartments are beautiful and come with a certain charm. You can find one that honors its storied past and offers new comforts on Apartments.com.
With dedicated amenity filters for the most popular features, you can narrow your search down to just the ones that match your must-have list. Browse through them to find the vintage apartment of your dreams!
FAQs
What neighborhoods in Seattle have a lot of historic apartments?
Every neighborhood in Seattle has historic apartments, regardless of if the neighborhood is affordable or on the pricier side. Whether it’s Chinatown or Downtown Seattle, pick the neighborhood that is right for you. Then you can look for a historic apartment as you’re sure to find one no matter the neighborhood.
Do historic Seattle apartments have modern features?
Many historic apartments have been renovated to include newer features such as granite countertops, air conditioning, in-unit washer and dryer, and more. However, not all historic apartments have these features.
To ensure you rent the right apartment for you, make a list of your must-have amenities. When you tour an apartment, ask the leasing agent if the apartment includes those features.
