This New Seattle Hotel Caters to Design Enthusiasts

The Dinogo Perspective

The ongoing $780 million transformation of the Seattle waterfront—which includes new greenery, biking and walking trails, and restoration of once-neglected piers—has rejuvenated the vicinity around the famed Pike Place Market and Elliott Bay. The local hotel scene is also experiencing a revival: The Lotte Hotel, situated in the heart of Downtown, opened its doors in September 2020, as part of the South Korea-based hotel group Lotte Hotels and Resorts.

Celebrated French industrial designer Philippe Starck infused the hotel with a blend of historical and contemporary elements, reflected in the contrast between its exterior—a sleek 44-story glass skyscraper (housing the hotel on the top 16 floors of the F5 Tower)—and its connection to a historic Seattle landmark. The country’s oldest Beaux-Arts building, established in 1908 and formerly the nation’s first United Methodist Church, has been transformed into the Sanctuary, a grand ballroom. This thoughtful renovation has maintained traditional features like the pipe organ, stained-glass windows, and original dome ceiling. All rooms boast floor-to-ceiling windows that offer breathtaking views of Elliott Bay or West Seattle, depending on the room’s orientation.

The hotel features design elements that pay homage to the Pacific Northwest’s temperate rain forests. The extensive front desk is made from a reclaimed 3,000-year-old sequoia log from California, with tree trunk-shaped stools present in the rooms and spa, while the lobby and room carpets showcase abstract patterns reminiscent of timber.

Who’s it suited for?

Design-conscious travelers seeking a central hub to explore the Seattle area. First-time visitors to Seattle will find the location advantageous, as it’s within easy walking distance of major attractions. Families with children will enjoy the spacious rooms and child-friendly dining options at the restaurant, while business travelers can take advantage of high-speed Wi-Fi and a 24-hour on-site business center. The hotel also welcomes pets: Dogs under 40 pounds are allowed for a $100 fee, which includes a bed, food and water bowls, and treats. This fee is waived with the puppy pampering package, featuring a dog robe, in-room dining menu for pets, and a dog-friendly city guide.

The setting

The Lotte Hotel is just a 15-minute stroll from Pike Place Market, the Sky View Observatory, and the impressive Seattle Central Library, designed by Rem Koolhaas. For art and culture enthusiasts, the historic Moore Theater, Benaroya Hall, Olympic Sculpture Park, and the Seattle Art Museum are also within walking distance. The Colman Dock ferry terminal at Pier 52 is reachable within 10 minutes on foot, providing access to the many islands of Puget Sound, including Bainbridge Island and Bremerton.

The accommodations

The Lotte Hotel features 189 guest rooms, which include 32 suites and a lavish 2,100-square-foot Presidential Suite equipped with a baby grand piano in the living area. The rooms boast floor-to-ceiling windows offering sweeping views. My west-facing room was filled with natural light, providing a perfect vantage point for stunning sunsets each evening. The interiors, designed by Starck, showcase a serene color palette of whites, grays, and tans. The warm blond-wood walls and furnishings contrast beautifully with the abundant use of marble, mirrored accents, and metallic details, creating an atmosphere of quiet luxury.

The bathrooms were the highlight for me, featuring luminous travertine surfaces, playful arched mirrors, and refreshing rain showers. A large arched window above the sinks—with adjustable blinds for privacy—overlooks the rest of the room, enhancing the sense of light and space. Each room is equipped with an electric kettle, Nespresso coffee maker, a variety of local teas and coffees, and wireless Bose speakers. Guests can also select their preferred pillows from a pillow menu for a customized experience.

Culinary offerings

Blessed with consistent rainfall, the Pacific Northwest yields a rich variety of produce, including blackberries, apples, cherries, and wild mushrooms. Located on the 16th floor of the Lotte Hotel, Charlotte Restaurant and Lounge highlights local ingredients with menus that change seasonally and expertly crafted cocktails. Dinner selections might feature Hama Hama oysters accompanied by horseradish crème fraîche and blood orange mignonette, a white bean soup with stinging nettles, and black garlic–roasted octopus.

Desserts, crafted by executive pastry chef Artis Kalsons, offer a fruity conclusion to the meal, including chocolate cake paired with cherry sorbet and rose-infused cream, along with PB&J churros filled with berry jelly. Dining at the restaurant, much like the overall experience at the hotel, includes stunning postcard views of Puget Sound and downtown Seattle, framed by the ocean and the Olympic mountain range.

Service and staff

The staff is dedicated to anticipating guests' needs, fostering a warm and personalized atmosphere. In keeping with the hotel's cultural heritage, I was addressed by name and welcomed with a traditional Korean bow upon arrival. Upon entering my room, I discovered a refreshing cocktail and macarons awaiting me. The staff is also eager to create tailored itineraries for guests wishing to explore the local area.

Accessibility features

There are four types of accessible rooms available, totaling eight rooms for booking. The hotel is equipped with Braille signage throughout common areas—including meeting rooms, elevators, and guest rooms—along with ramps, handrails, and ADA-compliant restrooms and elevators. Accessible accommodations feature roll-in showers, grab bars in restrooms, and ADA-friendly workstations. All doors and hallways are designed for wheelchair access, with doors including an additional eyehole for convenience.

Indulgent relaxation

Located on the third floor, Le Spa de l’hôtel Lotte welcomes both overnight guests and day visitors. In a calming, white-walled environment, the spa features five treatment rooms, including one designed for couples. Guests can enjoy access to both sauna and steam rooms. The spa menu includes massages, facials, body treatments, and hair and makeup services, using luxury skincare brands such as Biologique Recherche and MBR Skincare.