Four Star Hotel Ballard
So often when a person thinks of the “reclaimed” look they think of it having a rustic or earthy feel. One of the things that we love about reclaimed is the history that is maintained when you “give old wood new life” as our motto states. In today’s drive by, disposable world we are often saddened when we see snippets of history being thrown away as we churn out another strip mall or fast-food restaurant.
As such, we are thrilled to have been part of a very special project, Hotel Ballard at 5216 Ballard Avenue NW, Seattle, Washington. The hotel is continuation of a passion for James and Debera Riggle that began in 1978 after James purchased the Ballard Elks building which now houses the Olympic Club next door. The hotel is co-owned with the Riggles, John Lowrance and Adele Maruo.
The space where Hotel Ballard resides was once a warehouse and prior to that, was the first bowling alley in Ballard. The hotel came to fruition as a result of the Riggle’s commitment and love of the neighborhood – to revitalize Ballard.
The intention behind the interior design of the hotel was to both pay homage to the landmark status of its neighbors and the Scandinavian heritage and lumber mill roots of the neighborhood.
“The entire hotel has a classic feel throughout,” stated co-owner Debera Riggle. “Our goal was to make people feel comfortable but also pampered. And, to offer a soothing sense with the calming colors, sumptuous fabrics and warm materials that we chose.”
Debera, owner of Changing Spaces an interior design firm, once again got her chance to put her personal touch on the finishes along with designer Janet Hendrich. The focal point of the space is a late 19th Century oil painting that Riggle acquired at a local antique dealer several years ago, when the hotel project first came about. The décor is comprised of natural materials including travertine, brick, wood and wall coverings in warm gold and cream. Custom chandeliers and sconces surround the large archways and impressive posts. Leading up to the guest rooms and suites, the welcoming feeling continues.
Guest rooms designed by Mike Skidmore Architect meld classic with historical details throughout. Again, paying homage to the neighborhood’s Scandinavian heritage and lumber mill roots, there are subtle touches such as custom artwork depicting messages in different languages on each floor as well as handsome reclaimed fir barn doors, stained to perfection, in each suite.
RLP is honored to have been able to participate in this labor of love. The project speaks to our mission of maintaining history and providing works of art in heirloom quality. Our motto has always been that if one tastefully uses natural materials to craft quality building components, the intrinsic beauty will complement the long lasting durability for a timeless work of art.
In addition to the reclaimed fir doors RLP designed and produced a custom barn door hardware track in a specific color that could the fit the hotel’s need for a low profile and clearance. Look closely at the barn door photo and notice how close to the ceiling the track is mounted. Most traditional barn door tracks require greater space between the top of the door and the ceiling. We are so excited about this new hardware design with its improved function and ease of install that there is now a patent pending.
Another cool part, this project so beautifully demonstrates how well reclaimed materials can fit into and adds to this atmosphere of sumptuous elegance. Way to go Hotel Ballard and thank you for including us on this special project!
