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A historic steam supply warehouse in Seattle’s Pioneer Square has been reimagined as Populus Seattle, a 120-room boutique hotel with architectural design by The Miller Hull Partnership, in collaboration with Urban Villages, Curioso, Aparium Hotel Group, and JTM Construction.

This project, developed by ArtsQuest and designed by MKSD architects, reflects both a respect for the past and a vision for the future; a future where arts, education and architecture intersect in meaningful ways.

When you meet Benjamin Scales, you quickly realize he’s not your typical building enclosure consultant. With more than 22 years of experience, Benjamin’s career has been a steady climb through nearly every corner of the industry. 

While Weather-Resistive Barriers (WRBs), flashings, and sealants perform reliably in controlled conditions, the true challenge arises at joints, corners, and penetrations—where distinct components and trades meet.

At the center of this envelope is an essential component: the air and water-resistive barrier (AWRB). These barriers play a crucial role in preventing moisture and air infiltration, maintaining structural integrity, and enhancing energy efficiency.

Because roofing systems have enormous influence over a building’s long-term viability, there is always a need to balance design intent with the practicalities of weatherproofing, material compatibility, and installation timelines. 

Building Enclosure announces our 2025 Leadership Award winner. In an era where climate change, energy efficiency, and resiliency dominate the built environment conversation, few professionals embody the intersection of technical expertise, sustainability, and leadership like Stevan Vinci.

35 Stone is a five-story mass timber office and retail building in Seattle’s Lake Union area, designed under the city’s Living Building Pilot Program to showcase sustainable design with rainwater harvesting, reduced energy use, and environmentally conscious materials, including custom metal panels.

Shinsegae Namsan is a seven-story, 200,000-square-foot building for national retailer Shinsegae. It has a multi-purpose program, housing both educational, training, conference, and office space for staff, along with a venue for concerts, performances, lectures, and other cultural events.

Waterproofing buildings during construction is vital for maximizing building longevity. If industry professionals move beyond the fundamentals, they can master weatherproofing. What essential strategies must they learn?