Metropolitan on First

Seattle, WA | Architect: Runberg Architecture Group | Completion Date: 2002

Jack Wiggins and John Riley provided structural design of this mixed-use development in Seattle, Washington. The Metropolitan on First features a number of unique amenities and public spaces, plus interesting design elements not typically found in today's mixed-use properties. The first impression is traditional Parisian style with a modern Seattle flair. This is owing to neo-traditional French features, including a mansard roof, ornate metal balconies, a cobblestone courtyard with fountain, and the inclusion of live/work lofts with street-level access. Sweeping archways surround the main entry, with the motif repeated at roof level. A standing seam metal roof covers the entire top story, allowing for upper-story loft apartments. A public deck overlooks Puget Sound and downtown, and units have smaller private decks as well. Wide sidewalks with tables and chairs create a café atmosphere outside the commercial shops and around the courtyard.

Tucked on a steep site with multiple at-grade entrances, Metropolitan on First is constructed of four levels of mostly below-grade structural concrete walls and post-tensioned slabs, exposed concrete columns, and five levels of wood framing. Foundation and shoring designs were challenging, given the severe west elevation drop-off and the proximity of existing footings of an adjacent property. The 136,000 SF complex houses over 100 residential units, 140 parking spaces, and 6,675 SF of retail/office space.

*Jack and John performed this project while with another firm.

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