spire headlines in puget sound business journal’s showcase of high-rise condominiums
As seen in Puget Sound Business Journal from “It Begins with a Look” by Carolyn Bick
In a recent high-profile Puget Sound Business Journal feature on the new resurgence of Seattle high-rise developments, SPIRE was headlined as an exceptional standout in the competition.
In the feature, entitled “It Begins with a Look,” the 41-story SPIRE project was noted for its future-proof, protected views of the Space Needle and its impressive count of 75 units already reserved or in presale, despite being two years from occupancy.
Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty is marketing the homes for sale for the California-based developer Laconia and its equity partner Vanke US, an affiliate of China’s largest home-builder. The development is within walking distance of Amazon and Facebook offices as well as the emerging new waterfront and open space of Seattle Center.
“We are right at the edge of a downzone, so the heights of the towers are limited to 85 feet,” Realogics owner and Principal Dean Jones told PSBJ regarding SPIRE’s protected views. “Everything to the north side of our development here at 600 Wall Street is lower-rise zoning.”
Jones also explained how the developer built its sales center nearby so customers could feel comfortable making a purchase a year or two before their unit would be done. It cost about $1.5 million and not only has model units and models of developments in the works, but also a virtual reality theater to show off common areas and floor plans. The two-year advance purchase would give buyers ample time to sell their current homes and arrange for their new life at SPIRE.
Bjorn Hoffmeister, a 42-year-old senior manager at Amazon, told PSBJ that he has agreed to buy a two-bedroom condo on the 31st floor of SPIRE for $2 million. He chose the condominium for its location and nearly 270-degree view. Based on what he saw in the model, he already knows how he will lay out his condo.
“I know the area,” he said. “Looking at the floor plan, I immediately knew how to arrange the living room to fully enjoy a perfect sunset view.”
PSBJ also noted how the SPIRE sales center highlights the view of Elliott Bay and mock units help buyers commit one to two years before the unit will be available.
