In the heart of Belltown, an island of sophistication awaits—Block 41, a unique event space that seamlessly combines historical charm with modern elegance. Heli Suokko, the General Manager, took us on a journey through this remarkable venue, revealing its distinctive features and the myriad possibilities it offers for events of all kinds.
Heli Suokko
General Manger
Block 41
Trevor Love
Event Producer and Sales
The Ruin
In the heart of Belltown, an island of sophistication awaits—Block 41, a unique event space that seamlessly combines historical charm with modern elegance. Heli Suokko, the General Manager, took us on a journey through this remarkable venue, revealing its distinctive features and the myriad possibilities it offers for events of all kinds.
Heli Suokko
General Manger
Block 41
Andrew Hoge
Creative Director,
Fairmont Olympic Hotel
Block 41 stands out as an island in the vibrant neighborhood of Belltown. The building itself is fully ADA accessible, providing a versatile canvas for a range of events, including corporate events, non-profit events, conferences, and activations. The top floor houses The Bert & Tot Ballroom, a space that exudes a chic, New York loft apartment vibe. It's an ideal setting for corporate events, complete with two screens, stage lighting, and ceiling-mounted projectors. The room can accommodate up to 100 chairs, making it suitable for meetings, non-profit events, and even weddings.
Capacity:
The Bert + Tot Ballroom accommodates 360+ guests, the Ewing Theater accommodates 260+, and the Courtyard 110+.
Location:
115 Bell St, Seattle, WA 98121
Notable Features:
It’s a flexible and adaptable space, with multiple features that can be modified for a custom event with state-of-the-art A/V and lighting capabilities, and stunning architecture.
Capacity:
The largest room accommodates up to 650 guests standing or 480 seated, while smaller spaces cater to various group sizes.
Location:
411 University St, Seattle, WA 98101
Features:
12 distinct venues, cutting-edge facilities, top-tier amenities, in-house audio-visual equipment.
Experience:
The Founders Club, the speakeasy, is open from 5pm - 12am Tuesday through Saturday. We highly recommend checking it out, but be sure to book a reservation!
One striking feature of Block 41 is its ability to transform its space to fit the needs of various events. The walls can be adorned with corporate branding, pictures, or even black and white photographs for a touch of nostalgia. The lighting, both ambient and dynamic, adds an extra layer to the atmosphere. With the flexibility to configure the room as needed, Block 41 ensures that every event leaves a lasting impression.
Descending to the lower level, we explored The Ewing Theater—an intimate space that allows for dynamic lighting changes, setting the mood for various events. This space, while smaller, is versatile and suitable for small concerts, meetings, or as an extension of larger events happening upstairs. The thoughtful design includes separate heating and cooling systems, ensuring comfort and adaptability.
The outdoor terrace at Block 41 offers a private sanctuary for events. The gate ensures exclusivity, and the space can be tailored for cocktail tables, soft seating, or even long games. The terrace serves as an extension of the event space, with a convenient bar setup and a picturesque backdrop for photo opportunities. It seamlessly blends the indoor and outdoor experiences, providing a unique and inviting atmosphere for attendees.
The history of Block 41 adds an extra layer of significance to the venue. Originally constructed in 1927 as a garage, the building later became the Ice Delivery Company, managed by the benevolent Albert L. Ewing, affectionately known as "Bert." His poems, love for his wife, Anna ("Tot"), and dedication to Seattle are woven into the fabric of Block 41. Today, the event spaces are dedicated to his memory, creating a unique blend of historical homage and contemporary event hosting.
Over the years, Block 41 has been a witness to a plethora of events, from Seattle Pride celebrations to vehicle reveals and nonprofit galas. The commitment to supporting nonprofits by offering special rates fosters a sense of community spirit. Heli Suokko shared the joy of working with repeat clients, turning the venue into a second home for those who return year after year.
Block 41 is a testament to the seamless integration of history, versatility, and community engagement. From the Bert & Tot Ballroom to the Ewing Theater, each space within Block 41 has a story to tell, creating a tapestry of experiences that make it a standout destination for events in the heart of Belltown.