By Gavin Curtis

Since 2012, Impact Hub has provided a workspace to bring groups and individuals together seeking social change: “Impact Hub Seattle provides entrepreneurs with the space, community and resources that are needed to build sustainable and scalable businesses and organizations that drive long-term social and environmental good.” The coworking space is a values and mission-driven organization located in the heart of Pioneer Square.

Situated in the Pacific Commercial Building, the building was originally constructed in 1899, making it one of the oldest office structures in the City. For years, the building acted as a high-end furniture store but now it’s a place of collaboration and community. The first thing you notice when walking into Impact Hub’s entryway is the 20-foot-tall ceiling with a large iron staircase leading to the floors above. The brick and timber construction, large windows that allow natural light to flood the space and exposed mechanical provides the “northwest” feel that so many emerging technology firms look to achieve.

When you walk to the southern end of the floor plan on the upper levels, you can see where the building has been modified from its original 1899 construction. Early 1900’s additions and seismic retrofits create twisting corridors, elevation changes and stairways that are now occupied by nonprofits, startups and other groups working toward social change.

I personally love the “Wi-Fi free” room filled with board games, cards and books for those looking to unwind and unplug. Because of the configuration and makeup of the building, the Wi-Fi free room is a dead zone for both Wi-Fi and cellular coverage, which they cleverly utilized as a great spot to temporarily disconnect from modern technology.

As you walk through the building, colorful artwork from one of the tenants, Amplifier, is spread throughout the common areas. These pieces are created at Impact Hub and distributed throughout the community to bring voice to various social causes.

We love the northwest feel that Impact Hub has created with the tremendous amount of natural light to provide the perfect space for creativity to thrive. The cross-functional collaboration Impact Hub is creating throughout this historic building is truly unique and we absolutely love their inspiring space! Congratulations Impact Hub!