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Looking up again! At the top of historic Smith Tower is a room with a view much in demand for small celebrations. Most people focus on the 360 degree take of the Seattle skyline from the midst of it. But if one looks UP, this is what you'll see: An intricate and beautiful enameled ceiling between hand carved box beams. I'm told the building's owner traded shotguns and typewriters (the Mr. Smith of Smith-Corona Typewriter fame) with the empress of China for the ornately carved furniture pieces, ceilings, woodwork and art and screens that give this room its name: the Chinese Room. Does your city feature an interesting ceiling that's caught your eye?
I see quite a few squared circles here. I'd be stuck there for a while I guess1
ReplyDeleteThere is so much artistry that is rarely noticed. Even if someone should look up, how much time do they take to really see? Thank you, Kim, for helping us to stop and see.
ReplyDeleteI love to visit the top of the Smith Tower.
ReplyDeleteAnd yup, Belgrade has a number of nice ceilings in public places, and here is one I posted from a an old apartment building's entrance:
http://yankee-in-belgrade.blogspot.com/2008/09/hidden-beauty.html
I've yet to go inside the Smith Tower, only seen it from the outside. So now I have something to add to my list whenever I can get back to Seattle!
ReplyDeleteGreat Picture, love the attention to detail on the design.
ReplyDeletehttp://awatchfulwanderer.blogspot.com
Wow! Very impressive!
ReplyDeleteI don't know of any ceilings in town that compare to that. So much work, care and detail is evident there. Your photo shows it well.
ReplyDeleteI used to work at the Smith Tower. It was really cool to visit the top and check out that room. That was one of the first things I got to do when I moved here. It has a pretty good view of Seattle.
ReplyDeleteIntense colors and intricate elements! They're beautiful! Very nice shot!
ReplyDelete"Typewriter"? What's that?
ReplyDeleteAnother lovely up shot Kim.
I've got to start looking up more! Beautiful shot!
ReplyDeleteSo good of you all to comment. I'm sorry that my internet access is so limited this week that I don't have opportunity to reply to each of you. And everyone, be sure to check out Watchful Wanderer's new photo site. His, shots of the storm and floods are very special. Welcome to the Seattle blogosphere. I've added a link to your site in my sidebar under Seattle Bloggers. Hope you keep having fun with it. Thanks for checking in here!
ReplyDeleteAnd thanks everyone for your continued viewing and comments!
-Kim
Wow, wonderful! I don't think I will see the ceiling like that here.
ReplyDelete*sigh* I so miss working in that building. I've just been laid off at my current job, however, so maybe I can hit up all the businesses left there for a job and move back in!
ReplyDelete