Crossing the Finish Line
In the spring of 2021, we laced up our shoes and set out to begin a marathon, diving headfirst into the project that was, at the time, called The Westland Building. It was our first project on the West Coast, and we couldn’t wait to explore all that the Pacific Northwest and Seattle had to offer. Weeks of research, site visits, concept planning, and storybuilding stretched out before us. Fast forward to May, 2025—for four years, we worked hand-in-hand with a world-renowned project team dedicated to the creative and the curious. Now, we look around at the completed Populus Seattle hotel with pride, knowing we were a part of creating something new, something powerfully transformative, for the community of Pioneer Square.
Erika Garcia Gutierrez is a Mérida, Mexico-based Interior Designer at Curioso. This spring, she traveled to Seattle, Washington, for the grand opening of Populus Seattle, a project she participated in from start to finish. Below, she recounts her experience in Pioneer Square and the transformative nature of this project.
Populus Hotel, affectionately known as Westland (a reference to the building’s historic name) holds a very special place in my heart. I had the privilege of working alongside my fellow Osxs—Elaine, Carlos, Caitlin, Elizabeth, Katrina, Angelica, and Dan—to transform an inspired concept into reality over the last four years. The journey has meant the world to me.
This summer, I visited Seattle—my first time on the West Coast—and I found myself shedding a few tears on the airplane as I caught a glimpse of the Space Needle. Arriving at the hotel, it felt surreal to see our sketches and ideas materialize before my eyes. In every detail, I could see each talented co-creator: Jack, Mike, Peter, Dom, and more. I was witnessing the fruit of our labor—a beautiful co-creation that was forged step by step over the last four years. The sheer scale of the entryway skylight left me in awe, and the unique design of the grand staircase drew me in—an inescapable energy emanating from the bar above.
As I walked through the hotel, surrounded by the forest-inspired storytelling, every design decision from the past four years fell into place: the choice of corridor colors, the lush planters on the facade, and the thoughtful vignettes in each guest room. The tones of green that surrounded me inside the hotel captured the spirit and landscape of Seattle so beautifully. Inside the guest room, I was reminded of why I pursued this path in design—to create environments that foster memories and stories for others. Seeing the operations team and guests moving throughout the space, I felt as if I were witnessing a beautiful symphony of connection, happiness, and harmony: chefs cooking, conversations flowing, and joy filling the air.
The Grand Opening celebration unfolded like a journey through the layers of story. We were immersed in a palette of bold, colorful paintings inspired by local culture and the natural textures of Washington, each piece anchoring the interior with intention. From there, Firn’s rooftop terrace offered panoramic views of Seattle, and as I looked around at the people and partners gathered, I felt the weight and beauty of collaboration.
That evening, someone asked me how I managed to contribute to the project from afar. I smiled and answered without hesitation, “I wasn’t alone; this is the product of a collective vision.” Moments later, I saw this echoed throughout the Art Room in framed pieces that captured the team’s collective process. Architectural sketches and design renderings were beautifully layered with the distinct elements that now live on in this hotel, designed to serve both travelers and the local community, right in the heart of the Emerald City.
I deeply appreciate the wisdom generously shared by every creative soul who shaped Populus Seattle. Each voice left a mark—quiet or bold, measured or wild. There are two things I want to highlight from this experience. First, the importance of creative freedom and a team that allowed my hand to move freely, expressing vision through sketchwork. And, second, something I’ll always carry with me: every idea matters—even the wild ones. They’re often the spark that leads to something truly unforgettable.
Thank you to every team member and future hotel guest for being a part of this incredible journey. It’s the connections and the stories we share that make this experience so meaningful.
