Archinect - News

Olson Kundig's Seattle Space Needle restoration shines in new photos

2019-10-15T19:58:00-04:00

A collection of new images have been unveiled by the architects at Olson Kundig highlighting the firm's recent restoration and renovations of the Seattle Space Needle.

The $100 million revamp made its debut in 2018 and was overseen by Olson Kundig Design Principal Alan Maskin. This project was discussed with Alan when we had him on the podcast...

Conceived in close work with Seattle's Landmarks Preservation Board, the cutting-edge redesign includes 196-percent more glass coverage than before while also featuring improvements that "make the original structure more legible and provide visitors with a widened lens of the stunning city and surrounding landscape," according to a press release.

Image courtesy of Hufton & Crow.

The renovations include the addition of floor-to-ceiling glass panels along the structure's observation level where a revolving glass floor is also located. The glass f...

Olson Kundig's Alan Maskin on Icons and Architecture for Children

2019-04-30T12:48:00-04:00

This week Ken and I are joined by Alan Maskin, partner and co-owner of Seattle-based Olson Kundig. Alan shares his story growing up on the East Coast, working as an artist and arts educator before moving onto architecture school in his 30s. He tells us about how he finally landed a job at Olson Kundig after 4 failed job applications, and then strategically moved his way out of his initial role of IT manager. He provides insight into what it took to move up in the firm, eventually becoming a partner and co-owner, and what kind of qualities Olson Kundig looks for when hiring new talent that fits well with time-crafted firm culture.

The Century Project for The Space Needle | Design Principal, Alan Maskin | Project Architect, Blair Payson, LEED AP. Photograph © Nic Lehoux

Of course, we also talk about his work, including the highly publicized renovation of Seattle’s iconic Space Needle, and some recent projects he has designed for children and families. We even get his thoughts on two to...

Seattle's Space Needle reopens after major renovation—now sporting a rotating glass floor

2018-08-08T14:52:00-04:00

Those who have a fear of heights might not want to look down next time you go up to the Space Needle. One of the centerpieces of the landmark’s massive remodel, designed by Olson Kundig, is now complete: a rotating glass floor, allowing visitors to look down at the 500 feet between them and the ground.

After receiving a massive $100 million Olson Kundig-designed makeover, the 55-year-old Seattle icon recently reopened to the public with an improved visitor experience, enhanced views (floor-to-ceiling glass panels further opened up the 360-degree views of the Puget Sound), and, what it claims to be, the world's first and only revolving glass floor.

"Oh look, there's our car!" Photo courtesy of John Lok and Space Needle LLC.

"Through the glass floor, guests are able to see the mechanics of the turntable, which consist of a series of 12 motors," explains the project description. "The power transmission relies on rolling peg gears to minimize friction and wear."

Seattle's Space Needle is getting a makeover: new renderings revealed

2017-10-04T14:36:00-04:00

Seattle's 55-year old landmark Space Needle is undergoing a $100 million renovation headed by Seattle-based design firm Olson Kundig. The venture's aim is to reveal the historic tower’s internal structure and harken back to the original concept sketches, all while expanding and improving the Space Needle’s iconic views and guest experience.

Image Credit: Olson Kundig

Enhancing the iconic view involves the addition of a lot of glass—176 tons to be exact will be added to the Observation Deck and restaurant level. Expanding the views by more than 25%, the observation deck above the restaurant will feature floor-to-ceiling glass panels on the interior and exterior to enhance the 360-degree views. At the restaurant level, the tables, chairs, windows, and rotating floor of the reimagined space will all be made of glass.

Construction began earlier in September with the impressive installation of a 28,000 pound platform 400 feet in the air to rest in place just below the Space Needle’s Top...