The Center for Wooden Boats in Seattle has unveiled its plans for a $6.6 million education center next to its 37-year-old facility at Lake Union Park. In a statement released today, CWB says the wood, steel and glass education facility, designed by award winning Seattle architect Tom Kundig of Olson Kundig Architects, recalls historic Northwest boatbuilding facilities. The education center will also serve as a modern “front door” for the museum, Lake Union Park, and the surrounding neighborhood. Construction is set to start by the end of 2013.
The design includes a dedicated youth classroom that can be converted to a sail loft, new gallery and exhibit space, and a new boat shop. The education center is the largest portion of a $9.5 million capital campaign aimed at improving CWB’s existing facilities at the south end of Lake Union. The addition will be named the Wagner Education Center after Dick and Colleen Wagner, CWB’s founders.
“This new facility will make it possible for even more people to come down to Lake Union Park and pick up a hammer or chisel or plane and find the joy when they make a boat with their own hands,” Dick Wagner said.
The CWB capital campaign has received support from the City of Seattle, King County, and Washington State, along with leadership gifts from business, individuals and private foundations totaling $6.7 million. CWB needs to raise $2.8 million to reach its goal. The design was unveiled at an annual block party for the South Lake Union neighborhood. More information about the capital campaign is available at the CWB website.
Source: Center for Wooden Boats
J.G. Follansbee 