How about a journey through Seattle’s skyline? We are about to explore the Qwest Plaza. This skyscraper has witnessed the city’s evolution for decades.
Qwest Plaza stands tall at 498 feet. It boasts 32 floors. It is located at 1600 7th Avenue. The building’s story began in 1973 and it was completed in 1976.
Originally, it was built as the headquarters for Pacific Northwest Bell. The building was first known as the Pacific Northwest Bell Building. Later it was named 1600 Bell Plaza. Then it was known as Bell Plaza. Finally it was named Qwest Plaza. These names reflect its changing ownership and purpose.
John Graham & Company designed Qwest Plaza. The architects emphasized utilitarianism. This was a contrast to the Seafirst Building built in the previous decade.
The Hoffman Construction Company of Portland managed the construction. Topping off occurred in July 1975. There was no ceremony due to concerns about a proposed rate increase.
The official dedication happened on November 22, 1976. Governor Dan Evans and actor Don Ameche attended. Ameche played Alexander Graham Bell in a film. The construction cost about $40 million. Bev Ardueser, an employee, won a naming contest with “1600 Bell Plaza”.
Pacific Northwest Bell needed one central location, because it had used 12 buildings since the 1920s. This consolidation was essential for the company’s growth.
In 2008, Qwest reduced its occupancy in Qwest Plaza. They then decided to sell the property. A deal fell through during the Great Recession.
Clarion Partners, a real estate firm, bought the building in April 2012 for $137 million. CenturyLink had acquired Qwest Communications a year prior. Today, CenturyLink and WeWork lease lower-level floors. Nordstrom occupies floors 4-6 and 16-32. The ground floor has retail spaces.
The Qwest Plaza is LEED Certified Gold. It offers 598 parking spaces. The walk score is 98 out of 100. The transit score is 100 out of 100. The bike score is 78 out of 100.
Qwest Plaza remains a significant part of Seattle’s Central Business District. Its history reflects Seattle’s growth and economic changes. Next time you pass by, remember its story. It’s a story of communication, consolidation, and constant change.