Magnolia Library
- Architects
- George Nakashima Paul Hayden Kirk Richard Haag
- Year
- 1964
- Style
- Mid-Century Modern
- City
- Seattle, WA
The Magnolia Library, completed in 1964, brought together an unusual trio for a branch library: architect Paul Hayden Kirk, furniture maker George Nakashima, and landscape architect Richard Haag. Built in the modern style, it stands as one of Seattle's mid-century public library landmarks.
the building
Three hands, one building. Kirk designed the building itself, Nakashima — better known for his furniture — contributed to its design, and Richard Haag shaped the landscape around it, an unusual collaboration for a neighborhood branch library.
the style
Built in 1964, the library is a Pacific Northwest example of modern architecture from a period when Seattle civic buildings increasingly turned to noted regional modernists.
More on Mid-Century Modernthe architect
Paul Hayden Kirk was a Pacific Northwest modernist architect; George Nakashima is best known as a furniture maker; Richard Haag was a landscape architect who worked alongside them on this building.
significance
The Magnolia Library was individually designated a Seattle City Landmark (#235) and is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
nearby
- Seventh Church of Christ (former)
- Old Fire Station #18
- Ballard/Howe House
- Queen Anne High School
- Climate Pledge Arena
- Museum of Pop Culture