Fischer Studio Building. Does the name conjure images of artists and melodies? It should. We are standing before the Fischer Studio Building. Its history is a harmonious blend of commerce and art.
Initially, in 1912, it was conceived as a business block. George Fischer envisioned a space for commercial endeavors. Architects Bebb and Mendel designed the first three stories. The San Francisco music firm Kohler and Chase became a tenant. Their Seattle headquarters included an elaborately designed retail shop.
However, the vision evolved. Between the initial construction phase, and the design of the upper floors the plan changed. It became a specialized business and residential building. This shift was influenced by Kohler and Chase.
A subsequent design and construction phase occurred in 1914-15. Bebb and Gould created plans. These plans offered a unique approach to housing performing artists. The location was near retail outlets and performance facilities. The building provided living, teaching, and performing space. Dancers, musicians, and vocalists found a home here. Individual units offered residential and teaching spaces. There was also a large performance space for recitals. Tenants and artists and their pupils used this space.
Carl F. Gould’s influence shaped the building. He joined the Bebb firm in 1914. Gould continued work on several large projects that Bebb or Mendel had already begun. He worked on the Fisher Studio Building. With Charles Bebb serving as principal engineer and construction manager, and Carl F Gould as the principal designer and planner, the two practiced in a flourishing partnership between 1914 until 1924.
The building had been constructed to the third floor level when Gould took charge. He redesigned the upper floor plans and street façade. He also designed the recital hall on the seventh and eighth floors. Individual living quarters were included. They had kitchen and bath amenities. Each unit had a reception room and living or teaching space. An electrified “Fischer ‘Studios’ Building” sign was planned for the rooftop.
Even though the building was constructed in two phases and three different architects were involved in its design, the overall design was integrated into a continuous and cohesive whole.
In 1918, interior alterations occurred. Some units were converted into living units with bathrooms. Some studio spaces became larger housing units. These included living and dining rooms, kitchens, and baths. These changes possibly resulted from the project’s initial success.
The Fischer Studio Building stands as a unique property type. It has an outstanding terra cotta design. It is associated with Bebb and Gould. Carl Gould made it unique. The exterior is well-preserved.
The eight-story apartment building has a distinctive facade. It was constructed in two phases. The first three floors were built in 1912. The remaining stories were added in 1915. Two retail spaces occupied the storefront level. Five floors had 64 small studio and one-bedroom apartments. The upper two floors housed an auditorium. In 1974, the building was remodeled. It was converted to create 40 condominium units.
Notice the three-part vertical block façade composition. The Venetian-inspired architectural character is noteworthy. The building shaft accentuates the residential floors. A wide enframed bay features tall rectangular window openings. Recessed spandrels have ribbed terra cotta panels. These accentuate five bays of windows. Ornate metal light fixtures flank the window bay.
The upper two floors are separated by a cornice. Five large rectangular terra cotta panels are adorned with diamond-patterned blind tracery. A highly decorated cornice and parapet feature surmounts this element. The parapet incorporates eight grotesques.