Hospitality interior design firm Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA) has completed the design of The Sound Hotel Seattle Belltown, Tapestry Collection by Hilton. Infused with the sights, sounds and flavors of the Belltown, The Sound Hotel embodies the artistic energy and playful beat of one of Seattle’s most vibrant and centrally located neighborhoods. The 142-room boutique hotel occupies the first 10 floors of the 42-story Arrivé tower, a new-build, mixed-use property.
Guided by the principle that form follows function, HBA designers turned to the steadfast local neighborhood as its muse, weaving its relaxed, artist-driven culture and history throughout each space of the hotel. Fresh, bright accents contrast with deeper tones and natural finishes making for an idyllic environment. Custom-drawn murals, feature millwork and ceiling elements, and one-of-a-kind carpet patterns combine to evoke a greater sense of place.
Photo credit: Will Pryce
“We instituted overarching threads of inspiration from the surrounding area to ensure a cohesive design for The Sound Hotel project, using a storyline-based approach from concept development to completion,” said Ashley Bright, HBA senior project designer. “The streets of Belltown exemplify the idea that art is everywhere, and the neighborhood itself is on display as a harbor-front urban gallery. It is this essence of creativity with which we wanted to imbue guests from the moment they arrive.”
Artwork made of materials typically found in artists’ studios such as stretched canvases and flat files create a gallery for guests to explore, giving a glimpse into an artist’s process. The finished concrete floors and transition to the hotel’s bar and restaurant where large, operable windows flank the front of the building. Earthen tones and textural finishes offset fresh white backdrops and softened industrial accents, serving as a canvas for the food and cocktails to become the true art.
Photo credit: Will Pryce
In the guest rooms, warm wood-toned floors echo the moment of a musician stepping on stage. A dynamic, graphic mural behind the headboard is a focal point, composed of layered, iconic Seattle landmarks with direct reference to Belltown’s legendary rock and jazz history.
Photo credit: Will Pryce
Meeting rooms along the expanse of windows absorb the natural light and highlight the textures of exposed brick. Inspired by the city’s architecture and industry, screening elements divide an intimate breakout space bordering the meeting area and club lounge. A dramatic ceiling feature anchors the intimate bar within the club lounge, capturing the movement and evolution of the city.
