It’s often said that good design begins with asking good questions. When conceptualizing the design of First Light, a new luxury residential tower in downtown Seattle, Westbank and the interior designers at James KM Cheng architects posed several questions for discussion.
The team was curious about the nature of light in this area and its unique color palette. How the textures and materials used in the project could reflect the city’s rich history. Which finishes and furnishings were considered unmistakably ‘Seattle.’
The results of this brainstorm are what we see today in First Light’s architectural renderings of the amenity spaces. The Residential Gallery, for example, is ‘more than a conventional lobby.’ Clad in unvarnished concrete, the space feels modern and minimal. A custom piano, designed by glass artist John Hogan in collaboration with Italian manufacturer Fazioli, serves as the focal point, anchored by another one of Hogan’s pieces — glass art strung on vertical cables.
Seattle regularly ranks as one of the best cities for biking. It’s no surprise then that Westbank chose to incorporate a Bike Clubhouse, where residents can chat with their neighbors, tune up their bikes or hose them down after a particularly muddy ride. There are a whopping 140 bike racks, including space for 24 BMW shared bikes – 12 electric bikes and 12 conventional bikes.
The 47th floor is home to the Residents’ Salon, a stylishly designed space with sweeping views of the Seattle skyline. With plush seating, an elongated dining/conference table, Smart TVs and a prep kitchen, it’s the perfect spot to host a meeting by day and a dinner party by night.
Conversation pits are making a comeback, and First Light features a sunken Screening Lounge at the far end of the Residents’ Salon, where friends can gather to watch a movie or simply chat with drinks in hand.
The 3,000-square-foot First Light Wellness Center is located on the P46th floor. It boasts phenomenal views of Puget Sound and the Space Needle to distract you as you run on the treadmill. In addition to cardio machines, there is a well-equipped weight room, secluded yoga and stretch room, and access to a landscaped, wrap-around terrace.
One of First Light’s most striking features is the Sky Pool on the 47th floor. Swim laps in the pool, unwind in one of the two hot tubs, or soak up the sun on a lounge chair. When the temperature dips in the evening, cozy up by the sculptural fire pit.
Enjoy the great outdoors without ever stepping foot outside the building by visiting the Secret Garden on the rooftop. This verdant oasis features glass installations by John Hogan, quiet seating areas for reading or reflection, and, of course, plenty of greenery. Additional amenities at First Light include a pet wash station, pet grooming room, pet relief and play area, a residents-only car-share program and a full-time concierge.
Studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, three-bedroom and penthouse suites are still available at First Light. Visit the presentation gallery at 300 Virginia Street in Seattle, open daily from 11am to 5pm.
For more information, please call 206 620 2568, email info@firstlightseattle.com or visit firstlightseattle.com.
