The question of whether the University of Washington’s Suzzallo Library served as a filming location for the Harry Potter films is a common one, fueled by the library’s undeniably Hogwarts-esque architecture. Images of the grand reading room, with its high vaulted ceilings, stained-glass windows, and ornate woodwork, circulate online often accompanied by such queries.
Understanding the source of this association highlights the power of architectural aesthetics in shaping popular culture. While Suzzallo Library evokes a similar atmosphere to the fictional Hogwarts, no part of the Harry Potter film series was actually filmed there. However, the frequent comparisons demonstrate how a building’s design can capture the imagination and become linked to fictional worlds. This connection benefits the library by attracting visitors and enhancing its cultural significance. The enduring interest underscores the library’s architectural beauty and its resonance with a beloved fantasy series.