“In a crystal, we have clear evidence of a formative life principle, and though we cannot understand the life of a crystal, it is nonetheless a living being.”
-Nikola Tesla
THE VISION
SOTE Pilot Sanctuary 2026
This artistically choreographed exhibit featuring colossal crystals will ignite the same awe one feels when beholding the Grand Canyon – when we are in the presence of something that transcends our current understanding of the world and places us beyond ourselves. The wonder that follows is an attempt to integrate and understand this suddenly broadened perspective.
Colossal Crystals
Crystals are the catalyst to the immersive experience. SOTE will remind us of what the natural world is telling us all the time – it’s not only function that matters. As humans we require unexpected moments of spellbinding beauty that evoke our emotions, engage our senses, shift our perspectives and inspire us to be our best selves.
Sanctuary Design
SOTE’s design team aims to create a sanctuary space that is holistic and engages visitors in a dazzling multi-sensory experience. We are intentional in the use and selection of materials and elements, and ultimately focused on creating a communal place of connection that provides comfort and inspires a deeper search for purpose and meaning.
Pilot Location
In the heart of downtown Seattle, SOTE will be an unexpected oasis designed to evoke awe and wonder. The design team is evaluating locations near Westlake Park, in Seattle’s retail core, for space that will provide the greatest access and have a positive neighborhood impact.
THE DESIGN
LMN Joins the Team
SOTE’s design success is shaped by an award-winning team led by Scott Crawford, Partner at LMN Architects. Internationally renowned for the design of environments that elevate the social experience, LMN recent projects include Seattle Convention Center Summit Building and then new Ocean Pavillion at Seattle Aquarium. With LMN at the forefront, collaborators such as Sam Stubblefied, co-designer of the Amazon Spheres, and Jake Barton, Local Projects founder and exhibit impact expert, will enhance the transformative impact of SOTE’s Pilot.
Pilot Timeline
2024
Concept Refinement
SOTE’s vision of a walking migration aligns with the city’s goal of a “Unity Loop” connecting downtown, the Waterfront, and Seattle Center.
2024
Design Exploration
SOTE secures funding from lead community partners.
SOTE secures location for #1 pilot.
Conceptual design framework
Digital Renderings
Development
2025
Pilot Testing
Pilot Design Completion
pushing the boundaries of fabrication, techniques and artistic expression.
Rigorous Testing and Improvements
Engagement Activities
2025-2026
Program
Refinement and Logistics
Partnership and Program Development
Marketing and Outreach
Engagement Activities
2026
SOTE Unveiled
Grand Opening!
Visitors Marvel
Foster dialogue, reflection and action leveraging the exhibition and experience as a platform for education, healing, and transformation
Mother Nature’s Design Inspiration
The beauty of the natural world paired with the creativity and ingenuity of humankind drive the Sanctuary designs. This gallery features some of the inspirational elements that will influence the design.
Get Involved
Help us diminish the urban awe deficit and catalyze pathways for human connection, belonging, healing and transformation.