The Chapter House

The Greeks have a long history at the University of Washington, dating back to the founding of the Sigma Nu chapter in 1896.

In 1917, Sigma Nu moved to a new location on the corner of 17th Avenue and 47th Street - 1616 N 47th Street, where they commissioned Seattle architect Ellsworth Storey to design what would become the first of many notable houses on UW's Greek Row. Storey's innovative brick structure set a new trend for the entire neighborhood, combining modern design with elements of the Chicago school of architecture and Frank Lloyd Wright.

Today, thanks to a generous gift from Brother Gordy Richards, the Sigma Nu chapter house is undergoing critical updates to its infrastructure, exterior, and interior. These updates include a new deck off the library, new state-of-the-art study rooms, and a modern 3rd-floor sleeping porch. Plans are also in motion to restore some of the house's original character, including the entry.

These updates reflect Sigma Nu's ongoing commitment to maintaining a modern, comfortable living environment for its members while also preserving the historic character of the house. By combining the best of the past and the present, Sigma Nu is ensuring that its chapter house will remain a fixture of Greek Row at the University of Washington for generations to come.