The absolutely stunning building was completed in 2004 and still draws design enthusiasts (who can partake in free public tours of the building) on a daily basis. The new library is 75-percent larger than the previous structure and features an innovative spiral design for housing its collection. Photo 1 of 12 in Dwell Around the World by Miyoko Ohtake from Seattle, Part Two

Dwell Around the World

1 of 12

In October I headed north from our home base in San Francisco to Seattle to report a feature story for our upcoming affordable luxury issue. While there, I searched out the city's best croissants (thanks to a suggestion from our photo editor Amy Silberman), took a ride on the newish Seattle streetcar to Lake Union Park, strolled quietly through the Seattle Public Library (shown here), and peeked behind the scenes at the Henrybuilt headquarters and factory. Watch the slideshow of my trips here: Part One and Part Two.

The absolutely stunning building was completed in 2004 and still draws design enthusiasts (who can partake in free public tours of the building) on a daily basis. The new library is 75-percent larger than the previous structure and features an innovative spiral design for housing its collection.