The Smith Tower is the oldest skyscraper in Seattle, Washington. The name of the tower was given after its constructor, Lyman Cornelius Smith. The tower was completed in 1914 and is the second tallest building on the West Coast of America. Comprising of 42 floors, the building rises to a height of 159 m or 522 feet. The tower was constructed by Gaggin and Gaggin, a renowned architectural firm of the time. The location of Smith Tower is at 506 Second Avenue in Seattle. This tower was first opened to the public on 4th July, 1914.
The historical significance of this tower is that it was considered to be a prominent landmark, which helped the ships dock, while they navigated through Elliot Bay. Smith Tower has witnessed the history of the city and is referred as the 'old man of Seattle's skyline'. The sparkling exterior of the building is made of brass and glass. The glass elevators in the Smith Tower offer a great view of the passing hall ways, each decorated in a different pattern. On the 35th floor of the Smith Tower, the exciting observation deck and the popular Chinese Room are situated. The wonderful intricately hand-carved ceiling and authentic Chinese furniture housed at Smith Tower were gifted by the Empress of China. The "Wishing Chair" of this room is still one of the prime attractions of the tower. According to the legend it is believed that any women, who sits on this chair and makes a wish to be married, will surely tie the knot within one year. It serves as the official address for several reputed companies of the region. The Walt Disney Internet Group is one the greatest company housed at the Smith Tower.
Architecture of Smith Tower
The Smith Tower is a perfect example of neoclassical architecture.
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Its exterior is made of granite on the first and second levels. A smooth terra cotta exterior is applied on rest of the floors. The exterior wall of the Smith Tower is washable and thus reflects a shining skin round the year. The Otis Elevator Company has provided the elevators with brass surfaces. The doors are of latticed glass.
The Smith Tower features 2,314 windows, which can be opened form inside. The tower stands on 1,276 solid pillars. The total weight of the tower is approximately 48,650 tons.
The Chinese Room and Observation Deck are positioned on the 35th floor of Smith Tower. The Chinese Room is an excellent venue for organizing events. It can accommodate up to 100 people. The Chinese room allows only a selected group of caterers to serve during an event. The Smith Tower Observation Deck offers an awesome view of Seattle city. The entire physical topography of the city including Mt. Rainier, Cascade Mountain ranges and the Olympic and can be witnessed from this high risen deck. The Observation Deck is open from 10:00 am until sunset during the months of April – October. On week ends it is open to visitors from 10:00 am to 3:30 pm during November to March. The Observation Deck and Chinese Room is also available for private events. The extreme top of the tower is crowned by a glass dome with a width of 8ft. Round the year it reflects blue light, but only during the month of December the light turns green.
Visitors can reach Smith Tower by bus or metro from Pike Place Market. The bus stop in front of the tower is named as the Smith Tower Stop. Parking is allowed at the Butler Garage. The area of Pioneer Square is particularly famous for the existence of the Smith Tower in Seattle.
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