A pied-à-terre is a small living unit, like an apartment or condominium, usually located in a large city and not used as an individual’s primary residence. With the transition to remote work over the last few years, some may find the pied-à-terre the perfect situation that allows them to dip into town for meetings or busy weeks at the office, while completing the rest of their work from a home office far from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Or maybe you love downtown life, and a condo with all the amenities is the lock-and-leave dream you’ve been waiting for.
Either way, here are four exceptional properties you’ll want to explore. Offered at a variety of price points, they make city living, whether you’re here for five days or 365 days, a fantasy turned reality.
Bellevue Pacific Tower
Location: Downtown Bellevue
What we love: This penthouse boasts swoon-worthy details, from the intarsia floor pattern in the foyer to the fireplace that stands across from 10-foot floor-to-ceiling windows. At 2,525 square feet, this three-bedroom, 1.75-bath home also comes with five parking spaces. Maybe this is your city escape, or a retreat for you and a much larger party.
Listed by Becky Lee.
The One Eleven
Location: Queen Anne, Seattle
What we love: What do you think about knocking down the wall? That’s what the previous stewards of this penthouse residence did, combining two top-floor units to build a 5,356-square-foot home that boasts stunning views of Seattle’s most iconic landmarks as well as vistas of both the Cascades and the Olympics. It’s everything—and that’s rare.
Listed by Ev Winningham & Kimberleigh King.
Escala
Location: Downtown Seattle
What we love: While this is the most modest of the four condominiums listed here, its sophisticated touches and modern finishes are standout. Details inside the home include hardwood floors throughout and a spa-like primary bath. Plus, this building is also known for its amazing amenities, including a theater room and a wine storage room.
Listed by John Madrid.
Fifteen Twenty-One Second Avenue
Location: Downtown Seattle
What we love: Amazing views, Pike Place Market as your neighbor (and the perfect spot to shop for fresh produce), and a spa bath in the primary. This home also includes bi-fold windows that welcome the sea breeze off Elliott Bay, and that fresh air will feel amazing on sunny Seattle days.
Listed by Sandy Justen & Julie Biniasz.
Want to get into a new development? Check out the lock-and-leave options at Graystone, Jade, and Infinity Shore Club.