Who Designed Seattle Convention Center? The Architecture Behind Arch and Summit
LMN Architects led the design of Seattle Convention Center’s modern Summit building, completed in 2023. The historic Arch campus has a longer architectural story beginning in 1988, followed by a major LMN-designed expansion in 2001.
This guide explains the architects, design teams, signature features, sustainable construction, artwork, building locations and how to explore the architecture in person.
Seattle Convention Center Architect: Quick Answer
LMN Architects
Lead architect: LMN Architects, Seattle.
Associate architects: Graham Baba Architects, Scharrer AD, Rolluda Architects and Tiscareno Associates.
Opened: January 2023.
Location: 900 Pine Street, Seattle, WA.
Multiple Architectural Teams
Original 1988 facility: TRA Architects and HNTB were central design firms, with design involvement by Pietro Belluschi and Angela Danadjieva.
2001 expansion and glass canopy: LMN Architects.
Location: 705 Pike Street, with additional Arch facilities at 800 Pike.
Seattle Convention Center Architectural Timeline
| Year | Development | Architectural significance |
|---|---|---|
| 1985 | Original construction began | Complex site over and beside Interstate 5 required major structural engineering. |
| 1988 | Original convention center opened | TRA/HNTB-led design team helped establish the downtown convention facility. |
| 2001 | Convention center expansion completed | LMN Architects designed the major expansion and distinctive arching glass canopy. |
| 2023 | Summit building opened | LMN Architects completed a new, vertically organized convention center. |
| 2026 | Summit continues receiving architectural recognition | Its design is recognized for interior architecture, sustainability and urban integration. |
Historical design attribution is supported by the Pacific Coast Architecture Database at the University of Washington, the original convention center history and LMN project documentation.
Arch vs Summit: Architecture and Visitor Comparison
Arch — 705 and 800 Pike
The Arch complex developed over several decades. Its best-known architectural features include elevated convention spaces, substantial structural supports, the dramatic glass atrium and connections across the downtown street grid.
- Original convention facility first hosted an event in June 1988.
- 2001 expansion introduced the celebrated arched canopy.
- Adjacent to Freeway Park.
- Contains exhibit halls, ballrooms and meeting rooms.
- 705 Pike and 800 Pike are connected by a covered skybridge.
Summit — 900 Pine
Summit takes a different approach: stacking event spaces vertically, opening interior spaces to daylight and providing more street-level engagement with downtown Seattle.
- Opened January 2023.
- Approximately 1.5 million square feet of gross building area.
- Features the glass-enclosed Hillclimb staircase.
- Includes a landscaped outdoor garden terrace.
- LEED Platinum-certified new construction.
| Feature | Arch | Summit |
|---|---|---|
| Primary architectural identity | Elevated structure and glass arch | Vertical convention center and wood-lined gathering spaces |
| Original opening | 1988 | 2023 |
| Major modern architect | LMN for 2001 expansion | LMN lead design team |
| Public entrance | 705 Pike Street | 900 Pine Street |
| Environmental certification | LEED Silver | LEED Platinum |
| Public architectural highlight | Glass atrium and adjacent Freeway Park | Hillclimb, wood ceilings and garden terrace |
| Typical public area hours | 6 AM–8 PM | 6 AM–10 PM |
Public hours are the published visitor schedule and can change for events, maintenance or security operations. Building entries and certain spaces may be restricted.
What Makes Seattle Convention Center Summit Architecturally Special?
The Summit building is more than an additional exhibition facility. Its designers attempted to make a large convention building feel connected to the surrounding city, with visible circulation, gathering areas and regional materials.
1. The Hillclimb Staircase
A defining feature is Summit’s large, glass-enclosed staircase connecting different levels. The Hillclimb creates a social setting where people can move, gather, sit and look toward the surrounding downtown.
Look for: the relationship between the staircase, building elevations, daylight and public seating.
2. Pacific Northwest Timber
Wood is an important part of Summit’s architectural character. The building uses reclaimed timber in highly visible features, including a suspended wood ceiling installation.
Key detail: approximately 3,900 suspended reclaimed wood planks are incorporated into the ballroom ceiling.
3. A Vertical Convention Layout
Traditional convention centers often cover a large horizontal footprint. Summit organizes exhibition, meeting, circulation and gathering spaces across multiple levels.
Practical implication: visitors should identify their event room and floor before arriving.
4. Natural Light and Glass
Extensive glazing introduces natural light into lobbies and circulation spaces, making the building visually open and helping orient visitors.
Look for: city views, visible stairways, glazed edges and daylight reaching different interior levels.
5. Outdoor Garden Terrace
Summit has a landscaped outdoor terrace of approximately 14,000 square feet, creating a contrast with the surrounding urban streets and indoor meeting spaces.
Access note: outdoor spaces may be reserved or restricted during particular events.
6. Street-Level Connectivity
The project occupies a prominent downtown site and aims to make the convention building part of the neighborhood instead of an isolated event box.
Look for: public-facing frontages, entrances and the way Summit meets Pine Street and neighboring roads.
Who Worked on the Summit Architectural Project?
Large civic buildings require design teams covering architecture, engineering, landscape, construction and wayfinding. The main collaborators publicly credited by LMN include:
| Responsibility | Firm or organization |
|---|---|
| Lead architect / interior design | LMN Architects |
| Associate architectural firms | Graham Baba Architects; Scharrer AD; Rolluda Architects; Tiscareno Associates |
| Owner | Seattle Convention Center |
| Owner’s representative | Pine Street Group |
| Construction management / general contractor | Clark/Lewis |
| Structural engineering | Magnusson Klemencic Associates |
| Mechanical, electrical and plumbing engineering | Arup |
| Landscape architecture | Gustafson Guthrie Nichol |
| Lighting design | Horton Lees Brogden Lighting Design |
| Graphics and signage | Studio Matthews |
| Food service design | Ricca Design Studios |
Summit’s published construction project value was approximately $2 billion. That describes the overall development rather than the architect’s design fee.
Seattle Convention Center Sustainability: What Is Actually Verified?
Certified under LEED New Construction Platinum.
Landscaped outdoor space integrated into the Summit facility.
Suspended timber installation incorporated into the ballroom design.
Summit’s sustainable design includes efficient building systems, adaptive interior space, material selection and a focus on daylight. Its LEED Platinum certification is a verified accomplishment, not simply a future target.
Public Art and Architecture: What Visitors Can See
Public art is part of the Seattle Convention Center experience rather than merely decoration. The collection started with the original facility and expanded substantially with Summit.
- Indigenous artworks: commissioned carvings at Summit entrances reflect the region’s cultures, including works by Andrea M. Wilbur-Sigo of the Squaxin Island Tribe.
- Architecturally integrated art: some works are built into the design and public spaces.
- Regional artists: commissioned pieces and studio works represent the Pacific Northwest creative community.
- Self-guided viewing: portions of the collection are in accessible public areas during building operating hours.
Summit’s public art program was highlighted in 2023 for nearly $8 million in work throughout the building and exterior spaces, including installations integrated with its architecture.
Visiting Seattle Convention Center for Its Architecture
Both main buildings are in downtown Seattle, approximately one and a half blocks apart. You can appreciate their exterior designs without attending a convention, and some interior public spaces are available during published public hours.
Arch Building
Address: 705 Pike Street, Seattle, WA 98101
Additional campus venue: 800 Pike Street
Public hours: 6 AM–8 PM daily, subject to changes.
Highlights: glass atrium, elevated design, connections to Freeway Park and the 2001 expansion.
Open Arch directions →Summit Building
Address: 900 Pine Street, Seattle, WA 98101
Public hours: 6 AM–10 PM daily, subject to changes.
Highlights: Hillclimb staircase, timber design, daylight-filled circulation and integrated artwork.
Open Summit directions →Map: Seattle Convention Center Campus
Use the correct street address when navigating. A general campus map may not identify the entrance assigned to your event.
Self-Guided Architecture Visit: A Practical Route
For an architecture-focused visit, the following sequence helps you compare the older and newer design approaches. It is a suggested walk, not an official guided tour.
Start at Arch — 705 Pike
Look at the building’s relationship with downtown streets and its elevated structure. If the public lobby is accessible, observe its large interior atrium.
Study the glass canopy and connected spaces
Notice how the 2001 expansion used the architectural arch and skybridge to connect convention spaces across the street.
Observe the Freeway Park connection
Explore the public park separately as conditions permit. It illustrates how Seattle’s downtown public spaces interact with infrastructure and large buildings.
Continue toward Summit — 900 Pine
Use normal public sidewalks and crossings. Compare Summit’s contemporary exterior with Arch’s older city-block configuration.
Explore Summit’s public circulation
If accessible, view the Hillclimb staircase, reclaimed wood details, public art and natural-light strategy. Respect any restricted areas.
Finish with the virtual tour
Use the official venue’s virtual tours to see spaces you could not access in person, including interiors and meeting facilities.
How to Open Floor Plans, Architecture Information and Official PDFs
Seattle Convention Center provides building information through its official campus and event-services pages. These resources are useful for students, visitors, meeting organizers and researchers.
Floor Plans
- Open the official SCC Campus page.
- Find Arch at 705 Pike, Arch at 800 Pike or Summit at 900 Pine.
- Select the building-specific Floor Plans option.
- Check levels, exhibit halls and meeting rooms before planning access.
Technical Guides and PDFs
- Open the official Guidelines & Policies page.
- Locate the Event Planning Guide and building floor-plan booklet links.
- Download the required PDF.
- Review accessibility, facility layout, event operations and technical requirements.
Seattle Convention Center Parking for Architecture Visitors
The venue operates three public garages. Parking is charged separately from any admission or event ticket, and payment arrangements can change.
| Garage | Vehicle entrance | Clearance | Published operating hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arch Garage | 1400 8th Avenue | 6 ft 5 in | 5:30 AM–midnight |
| Summit Garage | 1009 Olive Way | 8 ft 4 in at entry level; 6 ft 10 in on other levels | 5:30 AM–midnight |
| Freeway Park Garage | 1267 Hubbell Place | 6 ft 9 in | 5:30 AM–8 PM |
Published Standard Parking Rates
| Parking duration | Arch / Summit | Freeway Park |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 30 minutes | $8 | $7 |
| 30 minutes–1 hour | $10 | $9 |
| 1–2 hours | $11 | $10 |
| 2–4 hours | $20 | $19 |
| 4–8 hours | $24 | $23 |
| 8–10 hours | $26 | $25 |
| 10–12 hours | $28 | $27 |
| 12–24 hours | $37 | $36 |
| Evening, entry after 5 PM | $9 until midnight | Normal rates apply |
Rates reflect the venue’s published standard schedule checked October 2026. Verify current conditions and event-specific exceptions before parking. Garage hours do not necessarily permit unlimited overnight access.
For general advice on avoiding parking mistakes at large venues, see our convention center parking guide.
Accessibility and Public Transportation
Accessibility
Seattle Convention Center lists accessible public spaces, meeting rooms, exhibit halls, ballrooms and restrooms.
- Arch Garage: 16 designated accessible spaces.
- Summit Garage: 18 accessible spaces across three levels.
- Freeway Park Garage: 16 accessible spaces.
- Accessible entry routes vary by facility.
- Assistive listening devices and certain stage-access equipment may require advance coordination.
For mobility needs, request the venue’s Accessibility Guide rather than assuming every stairway or parking exit provides step-free access.
Transit and Arrival
Downtown Seattle is connected by public transit, including Sound Transit’s Link light rail. Westlake Station provides a useful arrival point for the convention district.
- Use the event’s specific Arch or Summit address.
- Follow station and sidewalk wayfinding.
- Allow for Seattle’s downtown slopes.
- Confirm service changes before travel.
- Use approved curbside pickup areas for rideshare and shuttles.
If you are traveling from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, compare rail, taxi and rideshare based on luggage and mobility needs.
Where to Stay Near the Convention Center
Architecture visitors who are also attending a convention may prefer accommodation within walking distance of both buildings.
Residence Inn Seattle Downtown/Convention Center
Address: 1815 Terry Avenue, Seattle, WA 98101.
This all-suite Marriott property is located in the downtown convention district, convenient for visits to Summit and Arch. It offers suites with kitchens and complimentary hot breakfast, although hotel parking is charged separately.
Our Residence Inn Seattle Downtown Convention Center guide covers hotel parking, breakfast, suites, walking directions and arrival planning.
Seattle’s Architecture Compared With Other Convention Centers
Different American convention centers respond to their cities with different design approaches. Seattle Summit emphasizes vertical organization and timber detailing, while other venues prioritize waterfront integration, green building techniques or large-span exhibition space.
David L. Lawrence Convention Center
Pittsburgh’s riverfront convention center is another useful example for architecture enthusiasts interested in environmental design and the relationship between large meeting facilities and urban landscapes.
Explore our David L. Lawrence Convention Center visitor guide for the venue’s building layout, riverfront location and practical visitor information.
Javits Center, New York
New York’s Javits Center provides a contrasting example of convention design on a dense Manhattan site, with major glass-enclosed spaces and a substantial expansion.
Our Jacob Javits Convention Center visitor guide explains entrances, transit, parking and visitor arrangements.
Seattle Convention Center Contact and Useful Information
Official Venue
Name: Seattle Convention Center
Main address: 705 Pike Street, Seattle, WA 98101
Telephone: (206) 694-5000
Summit address: 900 Pine Street, Seattle, WA
Official website: seattlecc.com
Questions to Ask Before an Architectural Visit
- Which public areas are open during the intended visit?
- Are guided building tours currently offered?
- Is the Summit Hillclimb open to non-event visitors?
- Are photography restrictions in place?
- Is the garden terrace accessible that day?
- Can visitors explore public art without an event ticket?
Frequently Asked Questions About Seattle Convention Center Architecture
1. Who is the architect of Seattle Convention Center?
LMN Architects led the design of the Summit building and designed the major 2001 expansion of Arch. The original 1988 convention center was developed by an earlier team that included TRA Architects and HNTB, with contributions from Pietro Belluschi and Angela Danadjieva.
2. Who designed Seattle Convention Center Summit?
LMN Architects was the lead design firm, working with associate architectural firms Graham Baba Architects, Scharrer AD, Rolluda Architects and Tiscareno Associates.
3. When was Seattle Convention Center Summit built?
Summit opened in January 2023. The completed development has approximately 1.5 million square feet of total building area.
4. Who designed the original Arch building?
The original 1988 building involved TRA Architects and HNTB, with architectural and environmental design input from Pietro Belluschi and Angela Danadjieva. LMN Architects was responsible for the later 2001 expansion and arching glass canopy.
5. What is the Hillclimb at Seattle Convention Center?
The Hillclimb is Summit’s prominent glass-enclosed staircase and gathering space. It connects interior levels and creates opportunities for views, movement and informal interaction.
6. Is Seattle Convention Center Summit LEED certified?
Yes. Summit is certified LEED New Construction Platinum. The older Arch building is identified separately as LEED Silver-certified.
7. Can the public visit Seattle Convention Center to see its architecture?
Some public spaces are accessible during normal published building hours. Arch public areas generally operate 6 AM–8 PM and Summit 6 AM–10 PM, but events, security requirements and maintenance can restrict access. Private meeting rooms and event spaces are not automatically open to visitors.
8. Where is the Summit building located?
Summit is at 900 Pine Street in downtown Seattle. It is approximately one and a half blocks from the older Arch facility at 705 Pike Street.
9. What sustainable materials were used in Summit?
Summit’s design incorporates reclaimed wood, including approximately 3,900 suspended wood planks in the ballroom ceiling. The building also uses daylight-oriented design and efficient systems and holds LEED Platinum certification.
10. How can I see Seattle Convention Center architecture and floor plans online?
Open the official Seattle Convention Center campus page for building-specific floor plans and use the virtual tours page for Arch and Summit. LMN Architects also publishes the Summit project record, including its architectural design team and project features.
Official Sources and Architectural Records
Information reviewed October 2026. Historical architectural credits, official venue material and architect project documentation were used to distinguish the original 1988 facility, the 2001 expansion and the 2023 Summit building. Operating hours, parking rates, tours and public access can change.