This historic Seattle building is last candidate for residential conversion

March 9, 2026 - 14:34

A prominent downtown Seattle landmark, the historic Liggett Building, is poised for a dramatic rebirth. A developer has unveiled a proposal to convert the long-vacant office structure into much-needed residential apartments, marking it as the last major candidate in the city's push to revitalize underused commercial spaces.

The elegant 1927 building, a fixture of the city's architectural heritage, has stood mostly empty for years. The ambitious plan aims to address two critical urban issues simultaneously: preserving a piece of Seattle's history while injecting new life into the downtown core by adding housing. The conversion would see the office floors transformed into modern apartment homes, breathing new energy into the stately facade.

This project represents a significant test case for the viability of such conversions in the current economic climate. The process involves navigating complex historical preservation guidelines, modern building codes, and financial hurdles unique to adaptive reuse. Success could pave the way for similar projects, subtly reshaping the city's landscape.

The proposal is now under formal review by city officials. Its outcome will be closely watched by urban planners, preservationists, and developers alike, as it may signal a new chapter for historic buildings in a changing Seattle.