Nestled along I‑5 in Seattle’s SODO district, the Old Rainier Brewery building is one of the city’s most iconic industrial relics. Originally founded by the Seattle Brewing & Malting Company in 1878 and later known across the Northwest as the home of Rainier Beer, this sprawling brick-and-timber complex has weathered Prohibition, multiple ownerships, and shifts in industry—yet remains a powerful landmark in Seattle’s urban landscape.
Through the 20th century, Rainier thrived here until Prohibition in 1916, followed by a revival in the 1930s under new ownership . Over time, the brewery changed hands several times and was ultimately shuttered by Pabst in 1999. From there, the site found new life as Tully’s coffee roasting facility and later as a bustling creative hub.
In 2003, the complex was purchased by Ariel Development, and by 2008, its 24 original buildings had been transformed into a mixed-use arts campus. Today, it houses artist live-work lofts, music rehearsal studios, production offices, and event spaces—a reinvention honoring the industrial architecture and historical significance of the property.
A standout feature of the brewery is the historic neon “R” sign, a Seattle landmark. Originally installed in the 1950s, the sign was removed when Tully’s replaced it with a “T.” In 2013, a restored red “R” was reinstalled, celebrating the building’s legacy and symbolizing Rainier’s enduring place in Seattle culture.
The complex continues to evolve under modern stewardship: renovations led by ScanlanKemperBard since 2018 have upgraded interiors for office tenants like REI, Patagonia, Nightclubs, and creative firms—all while safeguarding original structural elements like brick walls, high ceilings, and wooden beams.
Why the Old Rainier Brewery matters
- A living example of adaptive reuse: preserving historical architecture while serving 21st‑century creative communities.
- A testament to Seattle’s industrial heritage—from beer to coffee to art.
- A continuing center for culture and creativity—live music, studios, offices, and even haunted tales.
Next time you pass the glowing “R” atop Airport Way South, remember: you’re witnessing a dynamic piece of Seattle history—built on craft, reborn for artistry, and still pulsing with creative energy.
