Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute Restoration
Updated: September 19, 2025
Fall 2025
Seattle Parks and Recreation (SPR) has concluded pre-design work to refine the scope and better understand the cost of the needs. We anticipate beginning design in early 2026 and construction in 2026 and 2027.
As of September 2025, the Langston Hughes building envelope assessment, accessibility and mechanical studies are complete. The project is moving forward with the next phase of the project, though funding limitations mean the project scope is currently limited unless additional grant funding can be secured. The new phase of the project will be presented through the Parks ProView process in December 2025. Once the project charter is approved, the proposed timeline is as follows:
- Late 2025 - Early 2026: Initiate the consultant RFQ selection process for longer-term items, including design services for mechanical, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, masonry repointing, and terra cotta repairs. During this period, the project will develop 30% designs, refine our fundraising strategy, and continue with grant applications. The project will also develop and review 60% and 90% construction plans, specifications, and costs in preparation for 2026 work and beyond.
- Summer 2026 and beyond: Begin work on repointing, terra cotta repairs, and window replacement to ensure structural integrity.
Location
Langston Hughes Performing Art Center; 104 17th Ave S, Seattle, WA 98144
Budget
The project budget is $833,054 from the Park District Fund for predesign study and design services for future Phase 1 work, including fixing a few identified quick wins such as adding mini-splits in the offices, replacing concrete stair railing, and LED stage lighting.
Project Description
The Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute Restoration project seeks to improve and extend the life of a critical cultural center and historic building. The project will make much-needed repairs to the building envelope, including repairs to masonry, window replacement, and re-roofing. It will also make accessibility improvements to parking, entrances and exits, restrooms, and theater seating areas to ensure that users of all abilities can attend and participate in programming and cultural events.
The project will update the HVAC system to improve comfort, controls and add cooling. If funding can be identified, SPR will seek to fully decarbonize the HVAC system. Other programmatic improvements for which SPR will work with the Office of Arts and Culture and non-profit partners to fundraise include replacement of the main theater seating, renovation of the kitchen, and improvements to facilitate more smaller performances and simultaneous events.
Built in 1915, the Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute (LHPAI) is a historic landmark in the historic Central Area of Seattle. Designed by B. Marcus Priteca and formerly the Jewish Synagogue of Chevra Biku Cholim, the building became a community center and part of the City of Seattle's facilities in 1972. It underwent extensive renovations in 2011 to preserve its architectural character and update the facilities. It is now a community facility that may be rented for events and community programs. LHPAI partners with the new non-profit LANGSTON to continue being a center for African American arts and culture in Seattle.
Community Participation
Please watch this page for opportunities to participate in the engagement process.