Seattle is known for its distinct neighborhoods, each having is own unique vibe and demographic. Downtown is exploding with new, distinctly modern condominium projects with restaurants and shopping just steps away. Led by the likes of Paul Thiry, Roland Terry and Lionel "Spike" Pries, Seattle has experienced some of the best of the Mid-Century Modern wave both before and after World War II. Almost all of the Seattle neighborhoods are home to masterpieces by these and other "fathers" of Northwest Modern architecture, many coming out of the University of Washington School of Architecture.

Capitol Hill is known for its edgy bent but is also home to some of Seattle's grandest and oldest homes. The shoreline of Lake Washington finds the graceful neighborhoods of Madison Park, Madrona and Leschi, and some of its priciest real estate. Northwest of downtown is the vibrant neighborhood of Queen Anne and the a lovely, bucolic enclave of Magnolia, both with fantastic views of the Seattle skyline and Puget Sound.

Magnolia, in particular was developed post-war, and offers many pockets of Mid-Century homes. Paul Hayden Kirk built several homes here as well as the Magnolia library, which just underwent a stunning renovation. Not to be missed are homes designed by a little-known modernist architect named Ira Cummings who's work was very prolific during the early to mid-fifties. Cummings also designed several "mod" apartment buildings on Queen Anne.

Recently, Contemporary architects like Eric Cobb, Tom Kundig, Heather Johnston, John DeForest and Jim Burton carry the Modernist vision forward with sleek innovative designs capturing the energy and vibrancy of Seattle's high-tech and bio-tech initiatives. Green building a growing segment of the market and leaning heavily Modern. Seattle's desire for more sustainable living will continue to drive these green-building initiatives forward.