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Located in Seattle's Historic Pioneer Square District, The Cadillac Hotel was one of the first masonry buildings constructed after the Great Fire of 1889.
Following the 2001 Nisqually earthquake, the building faced a precarious future as its severely damaged exterior and surprisingly intact interior were initially slated for demolition.
Fortunately, through the efforts of many individuals and organizations, the building's survival was ensured, and renovation included particular emphasis on the building's remaining original architectural features.
In light of the degree of damaged and removed historic fabric, reuse of existing materials became a cornerstone of the building's rehabilitation.
The process involved salvaging, evaluating and integrating existing and new masonry on the rebuilt elevations, rehabilitating the existing windows, and incorporating contemporary utilities (including an elevator, toilet and general utility rooms) to take advantage of the intact original lightwell area.
The building's basement and 1st floor were adapted for a new 10,000sf Visitor's Center for the Klondike Goldrush National Park – Seattle Branch, while the 2nd and 3rd floors house office space.
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