Seattle’s new Summit building, set to open in January 2023, is more than just a way to double the space at the Seattle Convention Center–its design is a nod to the culture and history that makes Seattle so unique. A closer look at the elements reveals an intricate and purposeful design that elevates it to one of Seattle’s most exciting pieces of architecture.
With a heavy wood focus, the Summit recalls Seattle’s early history as a timber town. Before Boeing, and before the Gold Rush, Seattle was known as an epicenter of the lumber industry in the 19th century. The Seattle Convention Center’s new building features no less than 17 different types of wood on display throughout its construction. For example, wormwood from sunken logs features heavily throughout the building’s design, giving the interiors a truly one-of-a-kind look.
The Hillclimb, along the Pine Street facade, features a suspended stair and escalator system that provides event attendees access from street level to the ballroom level on top. The Hillclimb is an iconic design element authentic to the Pacific Northwest made of local wood with seating elements for guests as they look out across the city.
Within the convention center, visitors come face to face with art installations, including artifacts found on the construction site. These sorts of additions help tie the Seattle Convention Center to the city, making it part of the landscape while celebrating its local heritage and those who came before.
