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Summary for 3838 4TH AVE / Parcel ID 7666204094 / Inv # 0

Historic Name: Air Mac Common Name: Rodda Paint-Decor
Style: Modern Neighborhood: Duwamish
Built By: Year Built: 1953
 
Significance

This building was constructed in 1953. Early on, it housed Air Mac, which specialized in construction equipment and materials. The ground level included a shop area to the north and a show room to the south, separated by a series of smaller rooms, which included offices, as well as the Parts Department. The new paint job has apparently done a lot to alter the original appearance of the building, but, in terms of the storefronts and hardware, the façade has changed little since the 1950s. Currently Rodda Paints-Decor occupies the building.


Note: Historical photo is from 1/11/1954, (courtesy of the Washington State Archives, Puget Sound Regional Branch).

 
Appearance

This is a simple concrete box, with a very slightly irregular plan. Its front elevation includes repeated tall glazed storefronts, which each consist of a vertical row of paired, square panes, separated by relatively thin mullions. Three of these storefronts are set to each side of the central glazed entry, which has a separate transom or clerestory overhead. Another characteristic feature is the raised parapet, which hides a “balcony” level. Based on original photos, the storefronts are original or very good replacements in kind. The back of the building is less rectilinear and has simple punched window openings with what appear to be replacement windows.

Detail for 3838 4TH AVE / Parcel ID 7666204094 / Inv # 0

Status: Yes - Inventory
Classication: Building District Status: INV
Cladding(s): Concrete Foundation(s): Concrete - Poured
Roof Type(s): Flat with Parapet, Other Roof Material(s): Asphalt/Composition
Building Type: Commercial/Trade - Business Plan: Irregular
Structural System: Concrete - Poured No. of Stories: one & ½
Unit Theme(s): Commerce, Manufacturing/Industry
Integrity
Storefront: Slight
Changes to Plan: Slight
Changes to Original Cladding: Moderate
Changes to Windows: Moderate
Major Bibliographic References
King County Property Record Card (c. 1938-1972), Washington State Archives.
King County Assessor Property Characteristics Report, database at http://www5.metrokc.gov/ --parcel locator

Photo collection for 3838 4TH AVE / Parcel ID 7666204094 / Inv # 0


Photo taken Feb 18, 2010

Photo taken Feb 18, 2010
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