Nelsen, Ibsen A. (Ibsen Andreas), 1919-2001

Ibsen A. (Ibsen Andreas) Nelsen was a well-known Seattle-based architect and influential figure in American art and architecture.

He was born in Ruskin, Nebraska in 1919 and attended the University of Oregon where he earned his degree in architecture in 1951. He then moved to Seattle and began his architecture career. Nelsen is best known for his larger projects; however, he also designed many smaller projects. Nelsen's home that he designed and built on Vashon Island, which he called Island Farm, reflects his style: an eye for modernity blended with a reverence for the past. Ibsen was also vitally involved with his community and served on many boards. His interests centered upon historic preservation and urban renewal in Seattle. Ibsen Nelsen died in 2001.

From the description of Ibsen A. (Ibsen Andreas) Nelsen papers, 1930-2001 1955-2000. (Western Washington University). WorldCat record id: 70287432

Ibsen Nelsen was a well-known Seattle-based architect and influential figure in American art and architecture. He was born in Ruskin, Nebraska in 1919 to a Danish immigrant father who worked as a cabinet maker. He served in the army during WWII in the Pacific theater and earned 2 Bronze Stars. Upon his return he married his life partner, Ruth Hanawalt with whom he had four children. He attended the University of Oregon where he earned his degree in architecture in 1951. He then moved to Seattle and began his architecture career.

Nelsen is best known for his design of Seattle’s Museum of Flight, the Stewart House and Inn at the Market in the Pike Place Market, Merrill Court townhouses, and many of the buildings on Western Washington University’s campus in Bellingham. However, Nelsen also designed many smaller projects including personal residences that earned him accolades. Nelsen’s home that he designed and built on Vashon Island, which he called Island Farm, reflects his style: an eye for modernity blended with a reverence for the past.

Nelsen was also vitally involved with his community and served on many boards. His interests centered upon historic preservation and urban renewal in Seattle. Ibsen Nelsen died in 2001.

From the guide to the Ibsen A. (Ibsen Andreas) Nelsen papers, 1930-2001, (Western Washington University Heritage Resources)