Built in 1914, the Smith Tower was the tallest structure west of the Mississippi upon its completion. No expense was spared in the construction of this ambitious 462-foot-tall building, with interiors finished in rich materials and ornate detailing. Today, this iconic figure in the Seattle skyline houses offices and commercial spaces topped by an observation deck on the 35th floor, and above that a one-of-a-kind two-story penthouse apartment tucked into the pyramid-shaped peak. The Penthouse at Smith Tower is a project designed by Graham Baba Architects. Photography by Tim Van Asselt

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Originally housing the building?s water tank and converted into a makeshift apartment in the 70s, this latest conversion updates the space into a luxurious penthouse. The design opens up the floor plan so all spaces within the uniquely shaped volume can flow together. A large pivot door provides separation for the bedroom suite, as desired. A rich yet simple material palette consists of stained oak wall panels, blackened steel guardrails and light switch towers, and warm grey quartz counters and tile. Flooring throughout was upgraded to stained engineered oak planks, with a moat of polished black pebbles filling in the irregular space between the new floor and the undulating perimeter of the existing structure. All new design elements?including wall panels, shower glass, and railings?are modular for ease of installation. Exposed exterior con...