Hotel Interurban

When plans were being developed for the new Hotel Interurban in the close-in Seattle suburb of Tukwila, Wash., “modern” and “contemporary” were adjectives high on the list, given the region’s tech-focused economy. Asian and Native American references were also important, to reflect the region’s cultural heritage. For the exterior, all of this translated into a palette of gray and tan earth tones that contrast against each other in patterns that emphasize the building’s squared-off lines.

Initially, designers with Group West Architecture had specified Equitone, a fiber-cement product as their cladding of choice for the entire façade, but those plans were reconsidered due to budget concerns. That is when AMS came up with the suggestion of PAC-CLAD Precision Series HWP panels as a cost- effective way to stretch the budget further without compromising the design. The revised plan uses the texture variations between the fiber cement and metal panels to emphasize the contrasting blocks of color.

The Interurban’s general manager, Mike West, says the exterior is a great fit with the hotel’s overall branding. “Our primary message to guests is that we are a hub for their Seattle experience – urban and modern with hints of Pacific Northwest and Asian influences,” he says. “The exterior speaks to that with a modern design and use of different colors and material styles, and with different geometric shapes incorporated into it.”