Blueprints -- Exploring The Layers Of 100 Years Of Seattle Architecture

A CHARCOAL SKETCH BY artist Norman Fox depicts the set-back tower of a futuristic-looking skyscraper in downtown Seattle, below - one of several proposals that came from the drawing boards of the John Graham Company during the Great Depression.

It was a time when struggling architecture firms had lots of spare time to develop speculative designs for clients who were in the same position - waiting for a turn in their fortunes. In fact, The Seattle Times published a series of articles during 1932-'33 called "Unfinished Business," featuring a different unbuilt project each week.

Seattle's history is filled with missed opportunities and unrealized dreams. But it is also rich with projects that moved beyond the idea stage and now shape the city's skyline. "Blueprints: 100 Years of Seattle Architecture," which opens March 26 at the Museum of History and Industry, invites the public to learn about the architectural design process.

The key word here is process. More than 500 photographs, 100 drawings, 20 models and 50 artifacts are used to peel back the layers and expose the decisions that went into that high-rise with a view or the lobby lined with marble.

This year, floods, fires and earthquakes damaged or destroyed buildings that communities grew up with and relied upon. Suddenly they were not there. Their loss reveals the social and emotional ties people have to their buildings. This exhibit tells us architecture belongs to everyone and we would do well not to take it for granted.

Lawrence Kreisman is the project coordinator and chief researcher for Blueprints: 100 Years of Seattle Architecture.

------------- EXHIBIT FACTS -------------

What: "Blueprints: 100 Years of Seattle Architecture 1994."

When: Saturday, March 26, 1994 through December 1995.

Where: Museum of History and Industry, 2700 24th Ave. E., Seattle. Parking is free.

Hours: Open every day 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission: General - $3; senior adults - $1.50; children - $1.50; children under 6 - free.

Information: 324-1126.