Luzon Building

The Luzon Building is a six-story bank structure at 1302 Pacific Avenue in downtown Tacoma, distinguished by large plate glass windows and cast iron columns throughout. The structure contains one elevator and features two separate entrances: a first-floor entrance on Pacific Avenue and a second-floor entrance on Commerce Street.

The building was completed in 1891 by architects Burnham and Root and originally served as the Pacific National Bank headquarters until its renaming in 1901. This early West Coast high-rise exemplified the region's growing economic importance and architectural advancement during that period.

The building took its name Luzon in 1901, reflecting the largest Philippine island and the period of American civil government expansion in the Philippines. This choice marked how the nation's growth influenced the naming of its structures during that era.

The building sits at a prominent corner location in downtown with direct access from both street sides. The dual entrances make it easy to navigate the surrounding area on foot and pass through the neighborhood.

The building stood as the last remaining structure on its block for nearly 120 years as a National Register site before being demolished in 2009. Its removal marked the end of an important architectural era in Tacoma's downtown history.

Location: Tacoma

Inception: February 8, 1891

Architects: Burnham and Root

Architectural style: Chicago School

Floors above the ground: 6

Elevators: 1

GPS coordinates: 47.25130,-122.43800

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:40