Spokane’s rich architectural landscape showcases a diverse blend of styles that trace the city’s growth from the late 19th century to the mid-20th century. For architecture lovers and homeowners alike, the city's neighborhoods offer a fascinating look at beautifully preserved homes that highlight the history and culture of the region. In this post, I’ll dive into three prominent styles that define Spokane’s historic homes: Craftsman, Colonial Revival, and Mid-Century Modern giving you grand examples and as well as neighborhoods featuring smaller, family homes that feature the architectural style.
Plus, it is October after all, I'll highlight a few spooky activities that feature homes in these styles.
Craftsman Homes: A Symbol of Boomtime in Spokane
Craftsman homes, flourishing from the early 1900s through the 1930s, remain some of Spokane’s most beloved architectural treasures. These homes emphasize craftsmanship, simplicity, and a connection to nature, with distinctive features such as low-pitched gabled roofs, exposed rafters, wide front porches, and the use of natural materials like wood and stone.
Features of Craftsman Homes:
- Exposed rafters and beams: Celebrating woodworking artistry with visible structural elements.
- Wide front porches: Perfect for relaxing during Spokane’s summers.
- Natural materials: Wood and stone are often used, helping these homes blend into their natural surroundings.
Examples of Craftsman Homes in Spokane:
- Iconic Example: The Campbell House located in Browne's Addition. This historic gem designed by Kirtland Cutter is a stunning example of Craftsman architecture and is now part of the Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture.
- Homes in the Corbin Park Historic District, Browne's Addition and the Audubon-Downriver Neighborhood to name a few! These area boast many early 20th-century Craftsman homes, where natural materials and inviting porches reign supreme.
Haunted Houses in this Style:
- The Campbell House, Patsy Clark's Mansion (just down the street) and other's in Browne's Addition have enough spooky stories that Spokane Public Library runs a self-guided Haunted Walking Tour specific to Browne's Addition. Stories include ones like this one from the Patsy Clark Mansion, completed in 1898 for mining millionaire Patrick "Patsy" Clark. The mansion is known for its ghostly residents, particularly the spirit of Mary Clark, who is said to linger in the former children's room on the second floor. Despite her death nearly a century ago, many visitors report sightings of her apparition, adding to the mansion's haunted reputation. Additionally, mischievous spirits reportedly haunt the basement, especially the wine cellar, where mysterious occurrences such as smashed bottles have raised eyebrows, hinting at the high standards of service expected by the former staff. Add time for a Haunted Walking Tour to your scheduled; it's a great excuse to have some creepy fun this October.
This craftsman home in Spokane's Audubon-Downriver neighborhood was a dream to help find new owners for.
Colonial Revival Homes: A Nod to Classic American Design
The Colonial Revival style draws inspiration from early American colonial architecture and was popular in Spokane from the late 19th century through the 1950s. Known for their symmetry, classical details, and formal elegance, Colonial Revival homes often evoke a sense of timelessness and tradition.
Features of Colonial Revival Homes:
- Symmetry: These homes often feature centered front doors with evenly spaced windows on either side.
- Classical details: Columns, pilasters, and decorative shutters are common elements.
- Brick or wood siding: Solid and stately, Colonial Revival homes often use brick for an elegant appearance.
Examples of Colonial Revival Homes in Spokane:
- Iconic Example: The Cannon House. Found in Spokane’s historic Cannon Hill neighborhood, this home embodies the grand, stately presence typical of Colonial Revival architecture.
- Rockwood Historic District: Known for its elegant, early 20th-century homes, this neighborhood showcases some of Spokane’s grandest Colonial Revival architecture.
Haunted Houses in this Style:
- While Corbin Mansion may or may not be haunted, they offer many spooky events. This year, they have a few tours ready for you in their History & Haunts offerings (found on page 23 of their fall activity guide). A Spokane History & Ghost Tour looks fun, and there are many others.
- The Gonzaga University Music Building, built at a time when Queen Anne or Arts & Crafts architecture morphed into Colonial Revival, was originally a mansion belonging to pioneer James Monaghan. It has a rich and eerie history that has captivated students and staff alike. After becoming the university's music conservatory in 1942, reports of ghostly activities began to surface, particularly in the 1970s. These include mysterious sounds like flutes and growls, along with a hostile presence that prompted an exorcism in 1975. Despite these efforts, many still experience unsettling feelings in the building, suggesting that the hauntings may persist. You can read more here.
Mid-Century Modern Homes: Sleek, Simple, and Functional
After World War II, Mid-Century Modern architecture gained popularity, and Spokane embraced this sleek, functional style. Characterized by minimalist aesthetics, open floor plans, and a seamless integration with nature, Mid-Century Modern homes in Spokane are iconic representations of post-war suburban development.
Features of Mid-Century Modern Homes:
- Flat planes and expansive windows: These homes typically feature low roofs and large windows that connect the indoors with the outdoors.
- Integration with nature: Spokane’s wooded neighborhoods complement this style, with homes designed to blend into the landscape.
- Open floor plans: Functional, flowing spaces, often with minimal walls.
Examples of Mid-Century Modern Homes in Spokane:
- Iconic Example: The Kundig Hissong House. A standout home with quintessential examples of Mid-Century Modern design; clean lines and sleek and minimalist vibe.
- Comstock Neighborhood: This area on Spokane’s South Hill is known for its collection of Mid-Century Modern homes that effortlessly blend into the natural environment.
Related: Spokane Relocation Guide from a Local - Check out my Bragging Rights section on mid-century architecture for some more beautiful mid-century homes in Spokane!
Haunted Houses in this Style:
- Well, I guess clean lines and tidy exteriors don't lend themselves to spooky, as I was not able to find any mid-century haunted homes in Spokane. That being said, if you're looking for more creepy architectural experiences, my friend Melissa, at Everyday Spokane, has a great article to suggest a few more for you!
Mid-century homes are so, so clean and beautiful.
Preservation and the Future of Historic Homes in Spokane
One of the main reasons we are able to feature so many architectural gems (or haunted houses if that's more your thing!) is Spokane’s pride in its architectural history! This is clear in the efforts to preserve Spokane's historic homes. Organizations like the Spokane Preservation Advocates, Spokane City & County Historic Preservation Office and Mid-century Spokane work hard to protect, honor and educate about these homes, ensuring that future generations can enjoy them. If you’re considering purchasing a historic home in Spokane, it's essential to be aware of preservation guidelines that may apply in certain districts, ensuring the character of these homes remains intact.
Whether you’re drawn to the cozy charm of a Craftsman bungalow, the grand elegance of Colonial Revival architecture or the sleek design of a Mid-Century Modern home, Spokane offers a diverse array of historic homes that capture the city’s spirit and history. And for those who love a little mystery, some of these homes come with a side of ghostly intrigue, adding an extra layer of Spokane’s charm and a little fun.
If you're interested in seeing what historic homes Spokane has available to call your own take a look at my listings here or reach out to me.
