Seattle, Washington is home to some of the most unusual and innovative spaces seen in architecture. Feeling the need for some inspiration? A stroll past the Narrow Nutty squirrel bridge should nudge your muse with a chuckle. Here are the top five most unusual and inspiring attractions in Seattle.
Image by Screwtape
Amos Peters was a soft-hearted construction mogul. In the 1960s, he was disturbed by the number of squirrels killed on the street outside his office window, so he commissioned the Nutty Narrows Bridge. The bridge was renovated in 1983, and continues saving squirrely lives to this very day. Mr. Peters, we salute you.
Image from Wikipedia
This 15 foot tall sculpture, made of rebar, concrete and other materials, was the creation of three local artists, in an effort to discourage the dumping of trash and to keep local drug dealers from hanging out under the bridge. The Troll is clutching a real VW Beetle in one hand, as a warning to what he’ll do to miscreants if they come too near. The honest citizens of Seattle, however, are invited to visit the Troll and explore this truly unique piece of art.
Image by Mhowry
It’s a bird… it’s a plane… it’s a… pyramid on top of Smith Tower?
This unusual bit of architecture has been designed and renovated into a spacious studio-style apartment, complete with catwalks that allow the occupant to peer out the upper level windows. A nod to the saying, home is where your pyramid is.
Image by Undergroundtours.com
When Seattle was rocked by an incredibly destructive earthquake, much of the city was in ruins. Undaunted, the residents rebuilt… right on top of the destroyed structures. Today, visitors can tour beneath the city and explore the haunting underground tunnels created by the old city. Need inspiration for a hauntingly good design? This might be the place for you.
An unusual and politically volatile bit of art, this statue of Lenin stands in a Freemont neighborhood, a testament to diversity and the appreciation of fine art. Most sculptures of this quality are in museums, behind glass, but this work of art is kept in the public square.
No matter what part of Seattle you visit, or which streets you stroll down, you’re sure to find inspiration waiting around every corner.
