GATE-way BILL-ding

Client: Lincoln Property Company

Nestled above one of Seattle’s busiest light rail stations, the Gateway Building is more than an office tower; it is a convergence of transit, architecture, and urban vitality. Rising 13 stories above Brooklyn Avenue, the 266,000-square-foot building integrates with the station below, creating both a gateway to the University of Washington and a cornerstone of the district’s evolving identity. The building enhances pedestrian life through widened sidewalks, plantings, and site furniture on Brooklyn Avenue NE. It improves safety and visibility while connecting the transit entrance to nearby destinations including UW, “The Ave,” and the future Innovation District. Complex Coordination Over an Active Station Building over an active light rail station presents a unique set of challenges. The structural design had to account for existing underground infrastructure while ensuring the tower’s loads imposed on the existing substructure were within the parameters under which the station was designed. The design team worked closely with Sound Transit to ensure integration where the two structures connect, aligning their requirements and minimizing any impact on the station while the general contractor expertly sequenced activities to keep pedestrian access open and transit operations running smoothly. A Gateway to Campus and Community Located along Brooklyn Avenue (often called “The Ave”), the Gateway Building serves as a key entry point to the University of Washington. The design seamlessly integrates with the neighborhood’s evolving greenbelt and enhances the pedestrian experience. Thoughtful setbacks, active ground-level spaces, and a welcoming streetscape reinforce its role as a gateway, strengthening the connection between campus and community. It also serves as a bridge between academia and industry. Sustainability & Performance The Gateway Building is designed with Seattle’s sustainability goals in mind, incorporating numerous environmentally responsible strategies. High-performance glazing minimizes solar heat gain while maximizing natural daylight, reducing reliance on artificial and improving overall energy efficiency. Sunshades on the south facade and vertical fins on the west and east elevations mitigate solar exposure, optimizing energy efficiency and occupant comfort. A green roof with a 60-kW photovoltaic array generates renewable energy and mitigates the urban heat island effect. Enhanced bike storage and shower facilities encourage alternative transportation, reducing reliance on single-occupancy vehicles. Transit-Integrated Urbanism As a model for transit-oriented development, the Gateway Building exemplifies how architecture can work in harmony with urban infrastructure. Direct light rail access provides connection to downtown Seattle, the Eastside, and SeaTac Airport, enhancing urban mobility. The design prioritizes pedestrian flow, with carefully coordinated entry points along existing routes. The design enables smooth transition from train to workplace, contributing to a more connected urban experience. Architectural Detailing & Materiality The Gateway Building reflects a commitment to refined detailing and quality materials. The facade employs a sophisticated interplay of fiber cement panels and glazing, creating a dynamic expression that shifts with the changing light. Metal accents introduce subtle variation in texture and reflectivity. Inside, strategic material selections and detailing contribute to a sense of craftsmanship and refinement. Adaptable office spaces prioritize flexibility, ensuring long-term usability for evolving workplace needs.