Byrd Barr Place

Built-in 1909, Firehouse 23 served Seattle’s Central District until 1970. Now, the building houses Byrd Barr Place, a nonprofit that provides anti-poverty services to the city’s most vulnerable. Byrd Barr Place offers essential services such as food, shelter, warmth, and financial tools for neighbors in Seattle’s Central District to build stability and self-sufficiency.

The building has kept its brick façade but now has expanded facilities, community meeting spaces, an ADA upgrade, energy-efficient LED lighting throughout, and an onsite generator that will help preserve perishables and food supplies during a power outage.

The organization’s name honors Roberta Byrd Barr, a passionate, fearless advocate and a presence in Seattle’s Civil Rights movement, and recognizes the Black leaders that committed their lives to fight for equity rights.

Byrd Barr Place’s new design is a simplistic, open, and inviting new facility. The design boasts some of the original structures and beams from the 114-year-old building yet shows off some of its modern amenities. The thoughtful retrofit and renovation have revitalized the building and extended its life, ensuring that it continues to support Byrd Barr Place’s mission and the community for years to come.