An early-stage illustrative concept to support a revitalised Seattle.

Developer Urban Visions has put forward a transformative vision to revitalize Seattle’s South Downtown district, a unique and diverse neighbourhood.

In common with many cities, Seattle has experienced something of a post-pandemic exodus as people have left in search of a better work-life balance. Following Mayor Bruce Harrell’s call to action, Urban Visions with architects NBBJ have looked at the city's potential to become a thriving area for both living and working, and act as a catalyst for Seattle’s wider regeneration. Features of the new neighbourhood focus on pedestrianisation and city-wide connectivity, enhanced public realm, more housing for all incomes and a vibrant mix of uses which can respond flexibly to the city’s rapidly evolving needs.

We collaborated with NBBJ at an early stage to explore appropriate image styles to convey concepts and big ideas developing a style echoing the blocky materiality of a physical architects’ model. Additional illustrative images were created to show an engaging narrative around the city's future use.

The scale of the images has been carefully considered to show the greening of the city at both rooftop and street level, the way in which spaces connect to the city’s waterfront, and plans for an integrated public transport strategy with bike routes. Existing city landmarks such as The Seattle Ferris Great Wheel provide reference points for orientation. All repurposed buildings are shown in one material, underlining proposals for new and exciting typologies and uses, such as the courthouse which is reconfigured as a hotel and hospitality venue.

The images have been used to communicate the future potential of Seattle’s Downtown to the Mayor, press and local stakeholders.