A new, permanent Italian Cultural Center will be moving into a property that once housed the London House Salon on the east side of the 13000 block of 1st Ave South in Burien.

As we previously reported, London House Salon – which had been in business for 50 years – closed permanently in May due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The property, which runs from around 13000 to 13028 1st Ave South, was purchased last month, and it encompasses an acre of land consisting of five lots, a 7,000+ square foot commercial building, a two-bedroom house, and plenty of parking.

The existing property will be transformed into a Italian cultural meeting place that will include an Italian library, a museum preserving the documents and photos that trace the heritage and contributions of Italians in the Pacific Northwest, a large hall and commercial kitchen for gatherings and events, smaller meeting rooms, the office of the Italian honorary consul, educational facilities, gift shop, and, of course, an espresso bar.

Italian Cultural Center rendering
Rendering shows what the proposed new Italian Cultural Center will look like.

“La Casa Italiana – Italian Cultural Center has chosen well in creating their permanent location here in Burien,” local Italian aficionado Maureen Hoffmann told The B-Town Blog. “With classes, museum, library, meeting center, consul and caffè, I imagine that this will become a great and welcoming cultural hub not only for the Italian community, but beyond. We can all be very pleased as we welcome La Casa Italiana to Burien. Benvenuti! Welcome!”

La Casa Italiana is awaiting final approval for its 501(c) 3 status. Its mission statement is:

“To plan, promote and carry on charitable, educational, and cultural activities, which serve the welfare of the community and to preserve the rich tradition of Italian culture by sponsoring lectures, classes, conferences, study groups, culinary events, mentorship programs, and scholarships…”

For more information:

The new center will be located between 13000–13028 1st Ave South:

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