Grand opening of Seattle Wood Technology Center
The construction dust has settled and the sawdust has taken over as Seattle Central shows off its new, state-of-the-art Wood Technology Center on Thursday, May 23rd. Dedication will be at 6 p.m. and the rest of the evening will be devoted to student-lead tours of the facility.
A 57,300 square foot academic and industrial learning center forms the new heart of the $25 million campus. It seamlessly connects with an existing structure built about 20 years ago. While the primary instructional space is industrial, the site encompasses all the elements needed to support community education. Currently about 200 students attend classes, and with the new space, at least 100 more students can be enrolled.
Students can earn certificates or A.A.S. degrees in marine carpentry, cabinetmaking & fine woodworking or carpentry. Night classes also are offered through Continuing Education for students who want to learn or upgrade their woodworking skills.
The new building consists of two levels organized in two wings separated by a dramatic entrance and gallery atrium. This includes a library, student services and an informal learning/collaboration space. The shop wing includes four shop spaces that are adjacent to classrooms, materials storage, and facility offices for each division. The classrooms feature a variety of professional tools needed to learn woodworking and boatbuilding as well as separate “spray” rooms to apply fiberglass and paint.
The architects were from the firm of Schreiber Starling & Lane and the designers used wood and industrial materials throughout the structure. The entry way has a stunning glass front which is patterned from poplar tree cells and creates a colorful contrast to the natural woods. Seattle artist Benson Shaw was commissioned by ArtsWA (formerly Washington State Arts Commission) to design the entry of the building.