About 1114 Howell St
1114 Howell St in Seattle’s Denny Triangle is a multi-venue entertainment complex housed in a repurposed early-20th-century warehouse. Built in 1917 as the Carl H. Peterson Dairy building (web.seattle.gov ), the brick-lined structure retains its original warehouse character (subtle decorative brickwork and modest warehouse proportions (web.seattle.gov )). Today it contains three interconnected nightlife spaces (Kremwerk, the upstairs Timbre Room, and the Cherry complex) under one roof (www.kremwerk.com ), all branded for electronic music and “queer culture.” The Stranger and local press describe Kremwerk’s basement as a dimly lit, industrial “bunker‐like” dance club (complete with exposed pipes, concrete and wood) while maintaining a chic after-hours vibe (www.dancemusicnw.com ). With its historic architecture intact and a modern nightclub layout, 1114 Howell is notable as a cornerstone of Seattle’s underground music scene – it even once hosted avant-garde DJs like L-Vis 1990 and Kode9 within its 231-person capacity dance floor (www.dancemusicnw.com ).
Events and Programming
1114 Howell St is best known for nightclubs and music events. Kremwerk hosts late-night dance parties nearly every weekend, featuring house, techno, drum-n-bass and other electronic music styles. In its early days it “hit the ground running,” booking international and local talent (future-bass star L-Vis 1990, Silent Servant, Defekt, etc.) in its first months (www.dancemusicnw.com ). The programming often includes themes like queer-centric nights, drag and burlesque performances (the DJ/drage calendar is sized to draw a diverse, LGBTQ+ crowd). Upstairs, the Timbre Room runs its own weekly events: for example Seattle news noted “ReFresh” (hip-hop) on Thursdays, “Foolish” (house) on Fridays, and “Digital Love” (indie electronic) on Saturdays, plus Sunday “patio parties” during summer (www.thestranger.com ). The Raven Kitchen & Bar (at ground level of 1809 Minor) brings in live jazz, bossa nova and cocktails on its schedule, contributing acoustic lounge–style nights to the locale (www.tripadvisor.in ) (www.tripadvisor.in ). The venue even throws occasional mini-festivals: owners have spoken of a “mini festival” model (with events like KremFest) to reach “a thousand people a day” across all rooms (www.thestranger.com ). Cover charges vary by event (typically in the teens of dollars) and advance tickets are strongly recommended. In short, expect a steady stream of DJs, drag shows, comedy and dance parties throughout the year, with tickets usually $10-$20 and occasional multi-day special events (www.dancemusicnw.com ) (www.kremwerk.com ).
Tickets and Booking
There is no traditional box office at 1114 Howell St. Most tickets are sold online in advance through each event’s official page or authorized outlets (www.kremwerk.com ). Because pricing and availability vary by show, check the venue’s calendar and buy early – pre-sales often cost less. If an event does sell out online, a limited number of tickets are typically held for walk-up sales at the door (www.kremwerk.com ). Arrive early on busy nights, since door sales begin only when doors open (often 6–10 PM depending on show) and lines can form quickly. Signing up for email alerts or following social media is also wise for announcements. In all cases, arrive with your ticket confirmation (printed or on your phone) and a valid ID if you plan to drink; note that most late-night club events are 21+ or at least require ID for alcohol service.
Seating and Layout
The venue is entirely general admission – there are no formal reserved seats or VIP boxes. The main Kremwerk dance floor is a large open space at basement level, surrounded by low lounge seating and tables (reviewers note “plenty of nooks and seating away from the dance floor,” including rustic “tree stump” tables along the edges (www.dancemusicnw.com )). Patrons typically gather on the open floor near the DJ booth or around the built-in bar areas. Because Kremwerk is a “bunker‐like” club with concrete floors and low ceilings (www.dancemusicnw.com ), acoustics are punchy on the dance floor. Those sensitive to loud sound sometimes stay near the outer edges or mezzanine for a coffee-house‐style vantage. Upstairs in the Timbre Room there is also an open floor and a small stage area (and additional bar), but again mostly standing room. If you want a quieter vantage, head for one of the peripheral seating areas or the patio (weather permitting) – avoid standing directly by the subwoofer stacks for example if you need a break.
Getting There and Parking
1114 Howell St is at the corner of Minor Avenue and Howell Street in central Seattle (Denny Triangle). By car, note that there is no private lot for this venue, so most visitors use nearby garages or street parking. For example, the public parking garage at 1121 Stewart St (~0.2 miles southwest) and the Diamond Parking lot at 800 Olive Way (~0.3 miles northeast) are within easy walking distance (washington-streets.openalfa.com ) (washington-streets.openalfa.com ). There are various metered street spots on Minor, Yale and Boren Avenues; rates and availability vary by day/time. Rideshare/drop-off is convenient at Minor Ave & Howell St right out front, or any curb on Minor or Howell (just mind any red zones).
Public transit is excellent. The nearest Link Light Rail/rail station is Westlake Station (Olive Way at 5th Ave), about a 6-minute walk northwest (moovitapp.com ). Seattle Center’s Monorail also terminates at Westlake (a 10-minute walk). Numerous Metro buses stop within a block or two: for example, routes 111, 322, 590, 630, 70 and others all serve Minor & Howell (moovitapp.com ). (One can also walk ~3 blocks east to Yale & Harrison for frequent north-south routes.) Riding rail or any north-south bus on 5th, 7th or Olive Way will leave you a 5–10 minute walk away. In sum, transit and rideshare both work very well; just confirm directions on Google or an app to Howell & Minor.
Inside the Venue
Expect a classic nightclub atmosphere inside 1114 Howell St. Patrons enter at street level by Minor Ave and descend stairs into the venue (note: Kremwerk’s main dance floor is below ground, with a flight of about 12 stairs at the entrance (www.kremwerk.com )). There is always security screening at the door (bag checks or metal wands are common). Once inside, the basement is dark and dance-focused: colored club lighting, a DJ booth at one end, and a high-energy sound system (a local DJ engineered a “wall of sound” system to let the DJ and crowd feel the energy together (www.thestranger.com )). In addition to multiple bar stations (in fact the owners have built four full bars across the complex (www.thestranger.com )), there are casual lounge areas and the aforementioned sank-stump tables along the sides. The overall vibe ranges from a tight, “industrial” underground club to a stylish lounge, thanks to wood accents and modern lighting in places.
On-site food and drink: As a bar/club, 1114 Howell has no kitchen of its own, but it’s adjacent to dining. Little Maria’s pizzeria (inside 1809 Minor) stays open late for clubgoers (“serving sustenance till 3 AM” on weekends (www.thestranger.com )). The Raven Kitchen & Bar (same building) offers Mediterranean/American fare and craft cocktails (www.tripadvisor.in ). Inside, three (gender-neutral) restrooms are available downstairs (two restrooms with three stalls and one urinal) and several more upstairs (www.kremwerk.com ). Note that Kremwerk itself is not ADA-accessible (no wheelchair ramp to the basement), though the upstairs Timbre Room and Cherry areas have ground-floor entry (www.kremwerk.com ). Coat check is provided downstairs on most nights (just off the entrance, and tipping is customary) (www.kremwerk.com ). Due to loud music, expect crowded dancing; wifi is generally not provided (cell coverage usually works through the stairwell). As with any club, it’s loud and dark inside – embrace the party atmosphere!
Nearby Amenities
Built into a lively neighborhood, 1114 Howell St has plenty of nearby food, drink and lodging options. For pre-show or late-night eats, there are dozens of restaurants in walking distance. The Raven (at 1809 Minor) does small plates through the evening. A block south or east one finds casual spots (pizza, burgers, Vietnamese pho and sushi, sports bars on Boren, etc.) and sit-down eateries on adjacent streets. The convention-center/downtown area (2–3 blocks north) has noted restaurants like Dahlia Lounge (Tom Douglas cuisine) and Sitka & Spruce. For nightlife, the Capitol Hill bars (Reach, Pine Box, etc.) lie about 6–8 blocks northeast.
Nearby hotels include well-known downtown lodging. For example, Residence Inn Seattle Downtown/Convention Center (1815 Terry Ave) and the Hilton Garden Inn Downtown (1821 Boren Ave) are each roughly one block from Wellesley (washington-streets.openalfa.com ). The Camlin/Worldmark building on 9th Ave (just north of Stewart St) is also a short walk away (washington-streets.openalfa.com ). Higher-end hotels in the area include the Westin and Hyatt Regency (0.4mi north) and The Edgewater on the waterfront (about 1 mi west).
In summary, 1114 Howell St is smack in the middle of downtown Seattle’s mix of eateries and hotels, making it easy to turn an evening out into dinner + a show. Dozens of bars and eateries line the nearby blocks (on Nippon, Howell, and Pine), so it’s easy to grab food or a drink before or after a show. Also, the Seattle Center (MoPop, Space Needle) is within walking distance if you want to add some sightseeing.
What Makes This Venue Special
Several factors set 1114 Howell St apart from a typical nightclub. Architecturally, it melds old and new: a turn-of-the-century brick warehouse now houses a high-tech club atmosphere. Critics note how the rustic brick interior and intimate “bunker” setting create a unique vibe – one piece calls it Seattle’s “foremost incubator for forward-thinking electronic music” (www.thestranger.com ). The venue’s playfulness and inclusivity are also distinctive. Its own branding even highlights “queer culture” alongside its music offerings (www.kremwerk.com ). By producing both underground techno nights and drag/variety shows, it serves a broad community. Locals appreciate that 1114 Howell combines innovative entertainment with a welcoming, all-ages outreach (artists often cross-promote multiple rooms in one evening (www.thestranger.com )).
In short, 1114 Howell is special because it has become a cultural hub of Seattle’s nightlife. Even Rick Steves–style stories have praised its “vibrant, inclusive scene.” It has literally put Denny Triangle on the nightlife map. Longtime patrons mention its storied concerts and themed parties as “legendary” – from spontaneous jazz sessions upstairs to marathon techno sets downstairs – making it more than “just another club.” Every weekend feels like an event. The co‐owners (the Stone family) speak of it as a “mini-festival” in downtown Seattle, and attendees often discover something new in its multiple rooms each night (www.thestranger.com ) (www.thestranger.com ). These qualities – the historic building, diverse programming, and reputation for quality sound/action – are why artists and audiences alike love 1114 Howell St.
Visitor Tips and Information
Age and ID: Most evening events are 21+ (especially ones with alcohol). Always carry valid photo ID – Seattle law requires checking ID for drinks. Check the event listing; some afternoon or ticketed events may allow younger guests, but assume 21+ for general entry and plan accordingly.
Accessibility: The basement club is not wheelchair-accessible (it’s down a 12-step staircase) (www.kremwerk.com ). If you need an elevator/ramp, shows held upstairs in the Timbre Room or Cherry area will work for entry. All restrooms inside are single-occupancy (gender-neutral) and accessible to the public (www.kremwerk.com ), but access to the restrooms downstairs still requires navigating the steps.
Coat Check: The venue provides a staffed coat check on the basement level (www.kremwerk.com ). You may want to use it on cold nights – tipping the attendant (a few dollars) is customary. Backpacks or large bags will be inspected or barred at the door for safety, so pack light. Wallets/car keys should be stowed securely; theft is rare but you’ll be in tight crowds.
Arrival Time: Evening shows often form lines. It’s wise to arrive early (30+ minutes before the start) if you have an advance ticket, to avoid line-ups and insure access. If tickets are sold out online, note that a limited number may be sold at the door (which opens at advertised times) (www.kremwerk.com ). Late entry once the show starts might be difficult. For popular DJs or events, plan extra time.
Dress Code: The club vibe is casual. There is no formal dress code – think smart clubwear or casual nightlife attire. For reference, The Raven (a neighboring bar) lists its dress code as “relaxed” (www.tripadvisor.in ), so you’ll fit right in with jeans, tees, or trendy outfits. Heels are okay if you can handle cramped spaces. Avoid bulky coats or clothes you care about (you will likely dance/groove).
Beverages and Food: Tell bartenders what you like – the bar staff are generally friendly craft cocktail bartenders. Seattle law prohibits outside alcohol, so you’ll drink on-site or at Little Maria’s/Raven next door. Water is often available from bar taps. If you need a break from alcohol or the club’s loud music, step into the Timbre Room lounge or the plaza area upstairs (weather permitting), or visit the cafe/bar upstairs (Little Maria’s kitchen) – they serve snacks and non-alcoholic drinks too.
Noise and Atmosphere: The music is loud and the bass intense on the dance floor, so bring earplugs if you’re sensitive (they’re sold at some music stores nearby if needed). If it becomes too much, the side areas by the speakers still have ear-shattering bass. Those prone to motion sickness or sensory overload should pace their club time and step out for air breaks (there’s a small patio space upstairs on nice nights). Overall, expect a safe but high-energy atmosphere: the management polices harassment strictly, and patrons often describe it as friendly and inclusive.
Communications: There is no public Wi-Fi. Cell phone service generally works (4G/LTE on major carriers is usable, though DJs’ lighting can occasionally interfere with signal in the basement). It’s a dark venue, so your phone’s camera might not work well – many people turn on the flash at photos, though be mindful not to disturb performers or DJs if flashing.
Common Pitfalls: Do not leave valuables (phones, wallets) unattended on bar counters or seats. Also be aware that dogs and outside food are prohibited. Seattle’s smoking law bans indoor smoking, so smoking is only allowed outside on the street. There is no re-entry policy; once you exit for the night (or to smoke outside), you generally cannot get back in without a new ticket, so plan accordingly.
Insider Advice: Check in with staff or the official social media for last-minute changes (hours or line procedures). If you plan to drink, arrive at least 21+ beverage orders off the drink menu (which includes local NW beers and creative cocktails). The neighborhood is safe but do watch your step on rainy nights (Seattle weather). The nearest light rail/monorail at Westlake lets out not far away for late departures. Finally, don’t miss the mix of atmospheres: if downstairs footsore, take a dance break upstairs – open spaces and table seating in the Timbre Room offer a breather.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy tickets for shows at 1114 Howell St?
Tickets are generally sold online through the venue’s official event pages. There is no on-site box office. Follow 1114 Howell’s calendar or social media to know when tickets go on sale. Buying in advance is recommended, as the venue notes that “ticket prices vary by event” and advance purchase can save you money (www.kremwerk.com ). You may also sign up for newsletters or alerts from Kremwerk or co-promoters to be notified of sales.
Are tickets available at the door if an event sells out online?
Yes – for most shows, a small number of tickets are held for door sales. According to the venue’s FAQ, “if advance tickets are sold out online, tickets will still be available at the door” (www.kremwerk.com ). However, door tickets are first-come, first-served, so arrive early on show night to secure one. Doors typically open around the advertised start time (sometimes 6–10 PM depending on the event, often closer to 10 PM on late-night shows).
What is the address and how do I get to 1114 Howell St?
The club complex occupies the corner of Howell Street and Minor Avenue downtown, address 1114 Howell St, Seattle WA 98101. It’s in the Denny Triangle/Belltown area (just north of the Convention Center). If driving, use GPS for 1114 Howell St and note there’s no on-site parking. Street parking and garages (e.g. Stewart or Diamond lots) are within a few blocks (washington-streets.openalfa.com ) (washington-streets.openalfa.com ). Transit riders can use any Northgoing bus on 5th/7th avenues or the Light Rail (stop at Westlake/Olive Way, ~6-min walk) (moovitapp.com ). The Seattle Center monorail (Westlake Station) is also a short walk away for ease of travel.
What parking options are nearby and is it expensive?
There are public parking garages and pay lots in the vicinity. For instance, a large garage at 1121 Stewart Street is about a block away (roughly a 4-minute walk) (washington-streets.openalfa.com ). Diamond Parking has a lot at 800 Olive Way (Main St) also ~0.3 miles away (washington-streets.openalfa.com ). These are fee-based (typically $2–$5 per hour in downtown). Metered street parking on Minor, Yale, or Boren is available but fills fast. In general, expect to pay a few dollars per hour; consider paying by the day if you plan to stay late. Rideshare drop-offs are easy at the venue’s corner, which often saves parking hassles.
Can I get to the venue by public transit?
Yes. The club is well-connected by Metro buses: several routes stop at Minor & Howell, including the 111, 322, 590, 630 and 70 (moovitapp.com ). These serve downtown and neighborhoods, so check a transit app for the best match. The nearest light-rail station is Westlake Ave & Olive Way (issued by Link Light Rail), only about a 5–7 minute walk (moovitapp.com ). You can also use the Seattle Center Monorail to Westlake Center and walk 0.4 miles north. In short, the venue is easy to reach without a car – plan your route on Metro’s website or a transit app.
Is the venue ADA accessible?
Partially. According to the official FAQ, the basement club (Kremwerk) is not ADA-accessible: entry requires descending a metal staircase (12 steps) (www.kremwerk.com ). However, the upstairs spaces (Timbre Room and Cherry) are on ground level and are accessible to wheelchair users (www.kremwerk.com ). There are restrooms on every level (all gender-neutral) (www.kremwerk.com ), but note that reaching the basement requires stairs. If accessibility is a concern, contact the venue in advance or plan to attend shows held upstairs.
Are there any seats, or is it all general admission?
There are no reserved seats or assigned tables – the venue is largely general-admission standing. Most people stand or dance on the open floor. Along the perimeter you’ll find a few bench seats and low tables (the venue has even installed rustic “tree stump” tables) (www.dancemusicnw.com ). Upstairs at the Timbre Room there is limited seating as well, but it’s primarily a standing/dancing layout. In practice, slides near the DJ booth are the noisiest and most energetic spots, while the sides and upper level give a bit of breathing room. Plan to move around as you like; the layout is long on dance floor and short on VIP lounges.
Is there a coat check at the venue?
Yes. A staffed coat check is provided at the club (downstairs in Kremwerk) on most nights (www.kremwerk.com ). This is especially handy in cooler months for storing jackets or bulky items. The staff remind customers to tip for coat check service. As always, avoid leaving valuables in any unattended bag or coat – keep small items on you or locked.
What food and drink options are available inside or nearby?
The club itself has multiple full bars (the owners built four bar stations in the space (www.thestranger.com )). You can order beer, wine and cocktails there. For food, the on-site Little Maria’s pizzeria stays open late on weekend nights (serving pizza, calzones and salads until 3 AM) (www.thestranger.com ) (www.thestranger.com ). The Raven Kitchen & Bar (just next door at Minor & Howell) is a sit-down restaurant offering Mediterranean-style dishes, craft cocktails and a full bar (www.tripadvisor.in ). If needed, dozens of other fast-casual and sit-down restaurants (burgers, sushi, tacos, etc.) line the adjacent blocks. Planably, you can eat at Little Maria’s before the show or hit The Raven before or after for a meal.
Where can I stay if I’m coming from out of town?
There are several hotels within a block or two. The Residence Inn Seattle Downtown/Convention Center (1815 Terry Avenue) is about 0.1 mile away, and a Hilton Garden Inn (1821 Boren Avenue) is even closer (washington-streets.openalfa.com ). The Camlin/Worldmark building on 9th Avenue (just north of Stewart St) is also nearby (washington-streets.openalfa.com ). For more options, the Westlake Center area (five blocks north) has major hotels like The Westin, Hyatt Regency and Fairmont. Staying downtown means most transit and bars/restaurants are within a very short distance.
Do I need to be a certain age to enter?
Most events at 1114 Howell St are 21+ since it’s primarily a bar/nightclub with liquor service. Proof of age (ID) is required for everyone at the door. Occasionally special ticketed or comedy/map events may allow 18+, but those are the exception. It’s safest to assume you must be 21+ with ID for after-dark shows. If a show is all-ages, it will usually be stated explicitly in the event listing, but stringently plan for 21+ otherwise.
What is the dress code?
The dress code is casual and relaxed. There is no formal attire required – clubgoers typically wear anything from jeans and a nice shirt to trendy club outfits. For comparison, The Raven (a nearby lounge) even labels its dress code “Relaxed” (www.tripadvisor.in ). You’ll fit in whether you dress up a bit or keep it simple. Comfortable shoes are a good idea since you’re likely to dance. In short, wear whatever you feel confident dancing in – just no flip-flops or torn clothes, and you’ll be fine.
Can I bring camera or video equipment?
Most clubs like this do not allow professional cameras or tripods, and may curtail flash photography. Cell phone photos are generally tolerated, but be mindful of owners at the door and DJs (they prefer no bright flashes on stage). If you plan to record with a DSLR or video camera, check with the event organizers first – typically any press or official filming requires prior arrangement. For casual selfies and snapshots, smartphone cameras are usually okay, but keep them respectful to others and to performers.
Are outside drinks or food allowed?
No, outside alcohol is strictly prohibited. You must purchase drinks at the bar. Outside food is also not allowed inside the club. If you have special dietary needs, consider eating beforehand or using the venue’s adjacent vendors (Little Maria’s or other nearby restaurants). Bringing in snacks or beverages could get you turned away at the door.
Can I leave and return during the show?
Typically no. Once you leave the club for the night, you usually cannot re-enter without purchasing another ticket. Because the venue controls entry on stairwells, they do not allow free re-entry. Plan your smoking breaks or trips outside accordingly before leaving for good. It’s best to keep things with you (like your drink) and stay in until you’re ready to head out for the night.
Is there a phone number or email I can use for questions?
The venue’s team generally directs inquiries through their website or social media rather than by phone. For specific questions not answered here, check the official Kremwerk web pages or social accounts. (Lost & found is often handled on-site at the next event.) In practice, patrons find it easiest to use the venue’s FAQ pages or message their social media, as the policies and schedules change with each show.
What time do doors typically open, and when should I arrive?
Door times depend on the event. For example, the club’s FAQ states Friday/Saturday events start drag or comedy at 6/7 PM and DJs by 10 PM (www.kremwerk.com ). That means doors often open in the early evening. In general, plan to arrive at or before the advertised start (or earlier if you want front-row spots or to avoid lines). Many people arrive 30–45 minutes early on busy nights. If you have an advance ticket, arriving 15–30 minutes before start is usually sufficient – but if tickets are sold out online, aim to arrive even earlier to queue up for a chance at door sales.
