Rock on the Wire: Kurt Cobain’s Seattle Home

Nestled in Seattle’s affluent Denny-Blaine neighborhood, the house at 171 Lake Washington Boulevard East holds a somber place in music history as the final residence of the “Nirvana” frontman, Kurt Cobain. It was within the greenhouse above the garage of this Queen Anne-style home, that Cobain was found dead on April 5, 1994, marking a tragic end to an era.

Built in 1902, the sprawling property spans approximately 7,000 square feet and sits on nearly an acre of land, offering views of Lake Washington. Cobain and his wife, Courtney Love, purchased the house in early 1994. While often associated with the grunge icon’s final days, it’s worth noting that they had only recently moved into the residence, having previously lived in another Seattle rental property where the “Sliver” music video was filmed.

Following Cobain’s death, Courtney Love and their daughter, Frances Bean Cobain, continued to reside in the house until 1997. Over the years, the property has undergone renovations, such as the infamous greenhouse where Cobain was found being torn down. Despite the changes, the house remains a significant landmark for those remembering Kurt Cobain and the indelible mark he left on music, often visited by fans from a respectful distance.

While the house itself is a private residence and not open to the public, its location near Viretta Park (Pictured below) has made the park a de facto memorial for fans who wish to pay their respects to the late musician.