25 Years in Downtown Seattle and New Waterfront Office for MLA Engineering
By: Bonnie Duncan
SEATTLE, March 11, 2024—MLA Engineering celebrates 25 years in downtown Seattle this month, becoming a hybrid office and remaining in the commercial core throughout the pandemic. Equally notable, the structural design firm has increased in size and recently moved from 4th and Union to a larger space at 1st and Spring overlooking Elliott Bay.
The new location in the Watermark Tower is especially fitting as MLA is among the few firms globally with the expertise to construct aquatic environments. In addition to its longstanding role in building design, MLA is widely sought for its knowledge to create sustainable homes for animals that live in the water at zoos and aquariums. Now, with a view to the Puget Sound, staff are directly in touch with our own water-based world as they develop places where others can encounter sea life.
Photo by: John L. Scott
Watermark Tower debuted in 1983. The building boasts uninterrupted views of Elliott Bay.
Michael Leonard, founder and principal of MLA, sees the introduction of a flexible workplace as the pandemic’s silver lining—inviting participation from the most talented and creative thinkers here in Seattle and beyond.
“Our commitment to downtown Seattle is part of our work/life strategy,” says Leonard, “because adaptability and convenience strengthen our diverse projects.” He adds, “We’re easy to reach from any direction, including across the water, and we’ve integrated technology to keep in close contact with all team members, whether in or out of the office.”
Along with working remotely to serve clients locally, nationally, and internationally, the new office’s open design encourages collaboration with full-height operable windows that fill the space with natural light and share the waterfront view with everyone. Break-out spaces in various sizes further support meetings and privacy as needed.
Leonard emphasizes, “This is a place where people enjoy coming together to solve unique design and construction challenges. Looking up from anywhere, you can’t help but find inspiration in our quintessentially Seattle scene of the harbor framed by the Olympic Mountains.” Both senior and junior staff members appreciate the opportunity to meet in person at a welcoming space.
Photo by Kyle Leonard
MLA Engineering Staff in 2024
Originally built in 1983 with an art deco theme, the Watermark Tower’s history harks even further back by incorporating materials salvaged from the erstwhile Puget Sound Mill Building. Calling this iconic high-rise home, MLA’s part in downtown Seattle’s evolving story continues to grow. Michael Leonard encourages interested engineers and others to visit. Contact info@mlaengineering.com to make arrangements.
