Crown Plaza, Bellingham

The Crown Plaza, formerly known as the Montague and McHugh building, stands as a striking example of Neoclassical Commercial architecture in Bellingham. Constructed on the corner of Magnolia and Commercial streets, this five-story structure was built with reinforced concrete and adorned with glazed terra cotta, giving it a distinctive gray-pink marble appearance. Designed almost square, measuring 125 feet by 110 feet, the building boasts a symmetrical facade that exudes grandeur and elegance.

Architecturally, the Crown Plaza is adorned with a plethora of ornate features that contribute to its captivating allure. Rounded pediment arches, ornamental friezes, spiral columns with finials, and rising fluted pilasters adorn the exterior, creating a visually stunning facade. The meticulous attention to detail is evident throughout the building, particularly on the first and second floors, where intricate carvings, floral motifs, and decorative cartouches embellish the surfaces.

While the lower floors boast an abundance of ornamental elements, the upper floors maintain a sense of continuity with the same architectural motifs, albeit with less intricate detailing. Despite this, the third and fourth floors still feature fluted pilasters, spandrels, and medallions, ensuring a cohesive design scheme throughout the building.