Opened on Oct. 15, the building at 310 Terry Ave. North is located in the center of Northeastern’s campus in Seattle’s South Lake Union Neighborhood.
Dave Thurman, the dean and CEO of Northeastern University’s Seattle campus, was walking through “The Hub” last week when he overheard a conversation.
It was between an academic adviser from the Khoury College of Computer Sciences and a member of the Career Development and Experiential Learning team.
Nearby, a professor from the College of Engineering was holding open office hours. And, around the corner, staff from the Office of Global Services were chatting with students about co-op opportunities.
“It’s just great to see the collaboration between them all,” Thurman says.
That collaboration has always happened on the Seattle campus, he says, just not all in one place.
“The Hub,” which held its grand opening on Oct. 15, is making that happen.
Officially known as 310 Terry Ave. North, “The Hub” is a 109-year-old historic landmark located in the center of Northeastern’s campus in the South Lake Union Neighborhood.
Northeastern’s other Seattle properties at 401 and 225 Terry Ave. North can be seen from the front steps of “The Hub.”
The two-story brick building was constructed for $15,000 in 1915 and was used as a warehouse until the mid-1970s when it was turned into offices.
The layout is functional and inviting, Thurman says.
The old post-and-beam construction — the wood was harvested from native Douglas fir trees more than a century ago — is preserved throughout. A blue-green color scheme is complemented by traditional Northeastern red and black.
The first floor serves as a student center with space for study, group work and recreation. There’s a ping pong table and board games. The back half of the floor includes student-facing staff offices.
“It’s a one-stop shop for students to come and get questions answered,” Thurman says.
The second floor includes more staff workspaces, quiet study areas and dedicated desks for full-time faculty.
There’s also an outdoor deck where faculty, staff and the 1,200 students can hang out between classes, as well as a small amphitheater.
“This is our crown jewel,” Thurman says.