Cristalla: Happy Ending, New Beginning
After two years of litigation, we are pleased to report news that Cristalla’s Homeowners Association Board has reached an agreement with its developer to settle all outstanding building litigation claims, with a court dismissal of the lawsuit expected within the next thirty days. Terms of the settlement are confidential and will be disclosed to homeowners in more detail at a private meeting in early July.
Cristalla’s architect is working to finalize detailed plans to start repairs to the roof (Sky Terrace and external ledge, or its “eyebrow”), additional remediation treatments to the South Wall at parking levels to reduce the chance of further water intrusion (check out our coverage on last fall’s repairs here), plus a complete rebuild of its 6th floor Steam Room. Within the next few weeks, Cristalla’s Board intends to select a general contractor to complete the work.
One of Seattle’s most beloved high-rise condominiums, the Cristalla took its inspiration from the Crystal Pool, an Italian Renaissance structure built on the site in 1914. Architect B. Marcus Priteca planned a high-relief, neo-classical façade of glazed terra cotta with domed corner entries. Arched steel trusses supported a glass roof, which covered a huge pool with salt water piped in from Elliott Bay. At the time, it was one of the most popular recreation spots in Seattle. Priteca later designed a building which has lasted a little longer… West Seattle’s Admiral Theater.
Today, the base of Cristalla hearkens back to those times. And, in addition to the lobby’s elegant staircase and two-story water feature, Traver Gallery and artist Anna Skibska provided artistic decor throughout. Interior designer Mandy Reed continued the theme of the building’s history by maintaining a prevalence of water through the use of translucent panels on Cristalla’s doors, and glass panels on its upper kitchen cabinets. All homes feature hardwood flooring plus carpeted bedrooms. Studios, 1-bedrooms, 2-bedrooms and penthouses range from 420 to 2,800 square feet.
You’ll never lose your western view at Cristalla, either. Developers bought the air rights above the neighboring property, capping any future growth to eight stories.
The Cristalla enjoys a Walk Score® of 97 and a Transit Score™ of a perfect 100. As you can see by this link, its location is amazing. You’re steps away from the best of Belltown in any direction. The Cristalla is pet-friendly too. There’s even a dog run on the rooftop! Lots of other amenities as well, ranging from a 24-hour concierge to a rooftop BBQ area. Check out our Cristalla website for more details. Our website also has a Listings tab on available properties.
Getting a loan at the Cristalla during ongoing litigation was often a challenging task. With litigation now resolved, obtaining a loan will be much easier. There is a lot to love about the Cristalla. We invite you to learn more about this special place, and even arrange for a private tour. Just give us a call at 206~910~5000, or send an email to urgent@stroupe.com.
