New Waterfront Landmark: ‘haʔłali’ Pavilion Opens at Seattle’s Centennial Park

SEATTLE, WA – The transformation of Seattle’s central waterfront reached a significant milestone this week with the official unveiling of haʔłali, a striking new public amenity building and pavilion located at Centennial Park.

Designed as a key component of the broader Elliott Bay Connections project, the structure serves as a functional and cultural anchor for the revitalized green space. The pavilion, whose name reflects the rich heritage of the region, was crafted to bridge the gap between urban infrastructure and the natural beauty of the Puget Sound shoreline.

The project is part of a larger initiative aimed at enhancing connectivity between the Olympic Sculpture Park and the northern reaches of the Elliott Bay waterfront. The design team focused on creating a space that is not only visually compelling but also highly accessible to the public, offering expanded amenities that support community gatherings and outdoor recreation.

According to details reported by the Daily Journal of Commerce, the architectural approach prioritized durability and integration with the surrounding landscape. The building’s aesthetic utilizes materials that age gracefully within the maritime environment, ensuring that the pavilion remains a central gathering point for Seattleites for years to come.

In addition to its aesthetic appeal, the site includes improved pathways and integrated lighting, making the area safer and more inviting during evening hours. As the city continues its multi-year effort to reconnect its residents with the water, haʔłali stands as a testament to thoughtful public space design, blending utility with a deep respect for the site’s history and ecology.

The opening of the pavilion marks a pivotal step forward for the Elliott Bay Connections project, promising to draw locals and tourists alike to one of the most scenic stretches of Seattle’s waterfront.