In this article, we will thoroughly explore the impact of Rainier Tower on our lives. From its origins to its relevance today, Rainier Tower has become a topic of great interest to researchers, academics and the general public. Over the years, Rainier Tower has generated debates, discussions and different perspectives that have enriched our understanding of this phenomenon. Through this comprehensive analysis, we will seek to shed light on the various aspects of Rainier Tower and how it has shaped our lives on different levels. This article will be a complete guide for those who wish to delve into the fascinating world of Rainier Tower and understand its importance in our contemporary society.
41-story skyscraper in Seattle, Washington
Rainier Tower
Location within downtown Seattle
Former names
Rainier Bank Tower (1977–89) Security Pacific Tower (1989–95)
The skyscraper has an unusual appearance, being built atop an 11-story, 37 m (121 ft) concrete pedestal base that tapers towards ground level, like an inverted pyramid. Architect Yamasaki chose the design in order to preserve the greenery of downtown Seattle and allow more ground space to be devoted to a retail shopping plaza.
Beneath the tower was Rainier Square, an underground shopping mall connecting with One Union Square, which is owned by the University of Washington (UW). This shopping center was demolished in 2017. Both the mall and tower were originally named after Rainier Bank, which was merged in the 1980s into Security Pacific, which was eventually merged into Bank of America. The tower was named after Security Pacific in 1989 until UW chose to rename it back to the more familiar "Rainier Tower" in 1995.
Locals often refer to it as the "Beaver Building" as its physical appearance looks like a tree being felled by a beaver. It had also been referred to as the "golf tee" building.
In 2015, the University of Washington proposed the Rainier Square Tower, an 850 ft mixed-use tower, to occupy space on the same block as the Rainier Tower. Construction began in September 2017, and completed in 2020.