Olson Kundig Installs Double-Decker Elevators at Seattle Space Needle

The following article highlights a bold modernization of Seattle’s Space Needle. Olson Kundig and Otis Elevators have installed all-glass, double-decker elevators on the tower’s exposed core.

This project is part of the Century Project. It reimagines vertical transport with a high-performance, historically informed design developed in collaboration with aerospace and facade specialists.

The piece explores the architectural intent and engineering challenges. It also outlines the ongoing timeline for the new cabs.

Project scope and collaborations

As part of the Century Project modernization, the Space Needle’s three existing single-cab elevators were replaced with two stacked cabs per shaft. These are consolidated into a single, all-glass assembly on the exposed core.

The collaboration brings together Olson Kundig and Otis Elevators. Specialized partners include Sonaca North America for spacecraft-inspired engineering and Green Facades for façade precision.

This multidisciplinary approach supports a design focused on tactile experience and vertical movement. Olson Kundig references a detail found in 1960s John Graham & Company drawings for the Needle.

Archival research situates double-decker lifts as early as the Eiffel Tower in 1889. This history informs a modern interpretation that pairs historical precedent with contemporary performance.

Design concept and visual language

Each elevator features two stacked cabs with curved golden-metal end caps and floor-to-ceiling glass. This delivers insulated, distortion-free clarity for riders and observers.

The design emphasizes material tactility and mechanical honesty. This aligns with Olson Kundig’s approach to kinetic and experiential architecture.

The transparent enclosure allows views of Seattle’s skyline. It also reveals the lift’s inner workings, combining transparency and precision engineering.

Engineering challenges and performance

The Space Needle is a unique setting for high-performance elevators. Its exposed core faces weather forces like wind and rain, conditions more typical of supertall skyscrapers.

The development team ensured these cabs operate reliably under such conditions. They balanced structural stiffness, aerodynamic needs, and passenger comfort.

The new double-decker cabs offer increased capacity and speed. Olson Kundig reports that each cab pair can carry up to 46 passengers at a rate of 800 feet per minute.

Technical highlights and operational goals

The project emphasizes a seamless, distortion-free ride and resilient performance in an exposed environment. Key elements include:

• All-glass, double-decker configuration for maximum visibility and rider experience
• Curved golden-metal end caps as a distinctive architectural signal
• Floor-to-ceiling glazing for panoramic views and daylighting
• High-performance insulation to minimize thermal and acoustic transfer
• Adaptations to weather and wind loads associated with the Needle’s exposed core
• Close collaboration among architecture, mechanical engineering, and façade specialists

Timeline, openings, and ongoing work

Development with Otis and partners began in 2019. This marks a long-term process rather than a single-install project.

One of the three new cabs was installed late last year. This signals tangible progress in the Century Project’s modernization.

The remaining two cabs are scheduled to open in 2027 and 2028. They will be positioned on the tower’s west- and south-facing sides.

This phased rollout reflects the realities of integrating new lift technology into an iconic observation tower. The approach minimizes disruption to visitors and operations.

Architectural intention within the Century Project

Olson Kundig frames this installation as a highly tactile piece of architecture. It continues the studio’s tradition of mechanical, kinetic design.

The double-decker elevators extend the Century Project’s broader agenda. This agenda already includes features like the 2018 revolving glass floor.

These elements reinforce a focus on movement, transparency, and experiential public space.

The project’s photography by Younes Bounhar for Doublespace Photography captures the interplay of light, materiality, and form.

Together, these interventions modernize a landmark.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Olson Kundig installs double-decker elevators at the Seattle Space Needle