Gensler’s next foray into medical/life sciences research and development projects has been revealed for Seattle’s growing innovation cluster. 

Located next to the Space Needle, the nine-story 222 Fifth N is a 200,000-square-foot design defined by its dramatic, shifted volumes that prioritizes movement, flexible workspace layouts, and the possibility for new activations in order to "set it apart from traditional research buildings," according to architect Brian Di Maggio.

The firm says furthermore the building’s massing and orientation "acknowledges the sculptural forms of Museum of Pop (MoPOP,) while the curvature of the facade—mirroring the skate park below—reflects the flow of pedestrian and cyclist traffic into Seattle Center."

A ribboning feature stair acts as its main circulatory route beginning at the corner of Thomas Street and standing prominently as a "beacon" for workers arriving from Seattle Center. Multiple ulterior roof decks offer "serendipitous interactions" further on. 

Geared both toward economic and environmental sustainability, the design utilizes an offset elevator core to maximize the amount of leasable spaces with up to 100 feet of depth. 

Floors 2 through 4 also include adaptable speculative lab spaces that can be easily transformed from single to multi-floor configurations and connect seamlessly with office areas to maintain uninterrupted views of the Space Needle, MoPOP, and glass artist Dale Chihuly’s nearby sculptural installation.

Speaking to its sustainable credentials, architect Rachel Cowen from Gensler’s Seattle operation adds: "The building performs 25% better than the 2015 Seattle Energy Code requirements, achieving enhanced energy efficiency through high-performance glazing and 100% electrified building systems including chilled beams and heat recovery HVAC."

The project was completed in 2024 at an undisclosed cost.