Landmarks Board OKs changes to former Theo Chocolate building

The Seattle Landmarks Preservation Board has unanimously approved proposed modifications to the Fremont Trolley Barn, the 40,000-square-foot former industrial building that most recently housed Theo Chocolate’s factory.

Since the building earned its city landmark status back in 1989, any changes to the outside need the board’s blessing. And they’ve given these plans a thumbs up.

Here’s what’s planned: The massive interior space will be divided into six storefronts, each around 5,000 square feet.

The most visible changes will be on the east side of the building, where four new roll-up doors will be added. Two of these doors will replace existing windows, while crews will use salvaged brick to fill in an old window and door near the north end that are no longer needed. Those high-up openings may date to an earlier era of industrial operations, though their original purpose is uncertain.

When completed, the east facade will have a more regular window-and-door pattern while meeting modern tenant needs. Future retail users will also be allowed to use sidewalk A-board signs, which could help with visibility during events like the Fremont Sunday Market.

The Trolley Barn is sometimes confused with another former Theo Chocolate warehouse at 124 N. 35th St., now being converted by The Picklr into indoor pickleball courts. The landmarked Trolley Barn, however, will retain its historic character while welcoming new uses.