February 5, 2018

Text: Athena Waligore

W Bellevue by HKS Evokes the Spirit of Shoreside Living

The shores of Lake Washington, both in and out of Seattle, are lined with lake houses. HKS drew inspiration from that archetypal structure for the W Bellevue, a hotel in Bellevue, Washington. Both the architect and interior designer for the project, HKS integrated the spirit of shoreside living into the structure and the details. Public spaces are designed to encourage casual gathering, boating influence is sprinkled into guest rooms, and a plaid reminiscent of cabins is used in multiple areas. There is an outdoor space with swings and rockers. Led by principal and design director Mary Alice Palmer, the 245-key hotel also features expansive lake views.

The influence of lake houses is seen in W Bellevue’s bar. Photography by Garrett Rowland.
Swings in a suite evoke a porch. Photography by Garrett Rowland.
Custom lighting fixtures in guest rooms mimic lamps used on docks. Photography by Garrett Rowland.
The restaurant is dubbed the Lakehouse. Photography by Garrett Rowland.
A lounge’s sectional is upholstered in plaid fabric. Photography by Garrett Rowland.
Pendant fixtures over the pool table were designed by Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec. Photography by Garrett Rowland.

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