We now have an idea of what the new 6-story addition to Hotel Ballard and the Olympic Athletic Club could look like.
The design from Arizona-based Nelsen Partners would add 49 hotel rooms to the existing Hotel Ballard, plus a brand new Olympic-size pool for the athletic club.
Owner Jim Riggle says the workout space would essentially double, allowing more room for free weights, exercise machines, and training sessions. The new pool would be big enough to accommodate lap-swimming, swimming lessons for kids, and a dedicated family swim area.
The rendering is an early design — Riggle says the colors will be different. He says they’ll aim to tie the new building in with surrounding buildings by using old brick and steel.
Riggle says the parking lot across the street will add an additional 20 spaces, and he’s toying with the idea of adding a new parking structure to accommodate both their hotel guests and club members.
If city permitting goes smoothly, Riggle says they’ll aim to start in 2021 — he wants to have it completed in 12-18 months. Much of the gym will still be usable, although racquet ball will be unavailable during the construction.
“It’s exciting that we have the space to develop and improve the club and offer additional hotel rooms,” Riggle tells My Ballard. “We planned this addition when we built the hotel, so we’ve been ready for it.”
Rendering by Nelsen Partners