Do you ever wonder how you will survive working the same job, every weekday, until the day you die? I do and sometimes it leaves me feeling hopeless. But then I discovered grounding, a simple technique that helps me feel more present and stay calm. Grounding is a technique for living in the moment by placing attention to our immediate surroundings through sensory organs. This creates a space between our thoughts and helps us relax. One popular technique involves naming 5 things you see, 4 sounds you hear, 3 distinct smells etc. I have discovered that grounding a few times a day helps me stay more focused and productive. The best part about grounding is, it is free and fun. I use it to step away from using technology and the constant pressure of being productive or entertained. For my neurodivergent mind, which runs on low dopamine, grounding gives me just enough stimulation to start my day.
I walk to work through the changing urban and green spaces. I use this opportunity to look out for small animals, birds, plants, trees, insects. Some days, like today, I watch the changing urban landscape and wonder about the history of some of the buildings. Since I live in Belltown, I find unique features and buildings at every turn. Belltown is one of the oldest developed neighborhoods in Seattle. There are many buildings that have stood the test of time through the late 19th and the early 20th century. These buildings have been renovated to adopt to the needs of present day urban population. Today I chose to walk along Vine Street as it has some unique buildings and street art that intrigues me.
There are so many beautiful elements on this street. Today, old architectural buildings caught my eyes. Brick buildings with windows from victorian to art deco era, street lamps clamped to the wall by the entryway and signs of renovation adapting to the changing times.
New Pacific Apartments
It is located at 110 Vine Street. This building was constructed in 1903. It has a brick exterior with bay window or bow window, a characteristic of 20th century architecture. Bay windows are designed to project outwards not only for visual appeal, breaking away from the flat facade, but also for practical benefits such as more light, more space and enhanced views. Today, the building offers studio and loft styled apartments. This building was also featured in the 1989 film "The Fabulous Baker Boys" giving it a moment of fame.
The Davenport Apartments
The Davenport Apartments located at 420 vine street, were built in 1925 by architect Herbert Bittman. This was built to house middle class families. The architecture feels like a mixture of few styles from that time. There are many elements of art deco style, popular in the 1920s and 1930s such as decorative brick work, long traditional windows and the eye catching decorative architectural entryway blending elegance and functionality. Who would not dream to live in such a cosy brick building with a beautiful entryway?
(Picture from Google as mine isn't great)
81 Vine Apartments
I have always felt this building has a story to tell me as if it was whispering to me. It was constructed in the year 1914 as a printing factory. It underwent significant renovation in 1999 by Geise architects. It was converted to a residential place retaining the high ceiling and a brick exterior. It is also rumored that Jeff Bezos lived here during the early days of Amazon. Other than the historical significance of this building, the lavender pipe system caught my attention and I wanted to know its story. This unique feature is part of Growing Vine Street project. The rainwater filters through lavender plants before making its way to the watershed. It is stunning and a beautiful example of how sustainability and design can co-exist.
Growing Vine Street aims to transform Vine Street into sustainable, pedestrian-friendly space. Cistern Steps featured next to the Belltown p-patch is another wonderful addition of the project. These steps capture urban runoff and filter the pollutants before the water joins Elliott Bay. Carolyn Geise, founder of Geise Architect, has been a prominent figure in project and has helped shape the modern day Belltown. It is brilliant and so inspiring to see the contribution across decades that adds to the beauty of this street. You can read more about the project and concepts here : http://www.growingvinestreet.com
Exploring Vine Street reminded me how grounding not only brings calm but also deepens the connection with the space around me. These elements stand as snapshots of the past, waiting to be woven into new memories. This inspired me to look up the history of Belltown, and it did not disappoint. I can't wait to write about it.