Placards bring significance to historic Georgetown neighborhood and architecture

In collaboration with the Friends of Georgetown History, Belle & Wissell designed signage that fittingly integrates with the buildings and history of the Georgetown neighborhood. The informative placards recognize noteworthy buildings and residences, bringing greater awareness to this first settlement of King County.

The Fred Marino Building now houses various local businesses and restaurants.

The Fred Marino Building now houses various local businesses and restaurants.

 

Belle & Wissell experimented with various stylistic approaches to the Georgetown Placards.

Belle & Wissell experimented with various stylistic approaches to the Georgetown Placards.

 

Current-day Georgetown features numerous structures from its early history: vestiges from the hops agriculture and brewing industries that greatly shaped the neighborhood, and the broader Seattle economy.

A vintage photograph of 12th Avenue South—Hamilton Hall.

A vintage photograph of 12th Avenue South—Hamilton Hall.

 

The placards—cast in bronze, and treated with a matte gloss—can be found throughout Georgetown, mounted or stanchioned on historical properties. Belle & Wissell applied varied designs for each building type: the residential placards are delicate and ornate, while those for businesses are clear and bold.

The Mission Theatre operated from 1924–1950. Now the Georgetown Ballroom, it is a popular venue for private events.

The Mission Theatre operated from 1924–1950. Now the Georgetown Ballroom, it is a popular venue for private events.

 

Belle & Wissell sketched how the placards would be mounted and viewable by passersby.

Belle & Wissell sketched how the placards would be mounted and viewable by passersby.

 

Local Georgetown community members and businesses came together to write the descriptions of each, with the help and resources of the Friends of Georgetown History.

Dora Horton and her husband Senator Will Carle's residence.

Dora Horton and her husband Senator Will Carle’s residence.

 

Click here to learn more about Georgetown history and its significance in the development of modern-day Seattle.

 

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