Our Story
A Legacy Of Pioneer Square
Populus is joining the vibrant RailSpur District at the heart of Pioneer Square, within the historic Westland Building, a historic building that has stood at the intersection point in Seattle’s bustling waterways and rail network for over a century. Originally built in 1907, the space has been thoughtfully restored, preserving original brickwork, massive Douglas Fir beams, and intricate ironwork, while reimagining it for a new era of sustainable, design-forward hospitality.
As part of the vibrant RailSpur District, Populus is sparking a cultural movement, blending eco-conscious development with community-centered art in one of the city’s most walkable historic neighborhoods. With easy access to Seattle’s iconic destinations like Pike Place Market and the waterfront, Populus is also minutes from the Seattle cruise port. For travelers and explorers alike, every stay is an opportunity to experience history, craftsmanship, and a more sustainable future.
Seattle’s Legacy Reimagined
Populus stands as a reflection of the craftsmen, designers, and visionaries who shaped it. Developed by Urban Villages and operated by Aparium Hotel Group, Populus is a seamless blend of history and modern hospitality. Designed by The Miller Hull Partnership, with interiors by Curioso, the hotel preserves its 19th-century craftsmanship while embracing contemporary comfort.
Every detail, from hand-finished materials to layers of texture, reflects a commitment to honoring the past while shaping the future. Populus is woven into Seattle’s evolution, continuing the legacy of Pioneer Square as a hub of culture, connection, and community, while offering a fresh perspective on modern hospitality.
Once a cornerstone of Seattle’s industrial past, the Westland Building has been reimagined into Populus with a design that highlights its original structure while bringing in new energy. Through thoughtful adaptive reuse, the original Douglas Fir timber beams that once supported the weight of commerce now frame inviting spaces, while expansive windows that have overlooked the city for over a century draw in natural light. Every detail, from hand-painted signage to layers of repurposed materials, reflects a commitment to honoring the past while shaping the future. Anchoring the vibrant RailSpur District, Populus continues the legacy of Pioneer Square as a hub of culture, connection, and community.
Celebrating Nature Through Art
Populus pays homage to its surroundings through a dynamic, 328-piece art collection curated in partnership with the global art production house ARTXIV. Featuring original commissions from 35 local and international artists, the collection celebrates the Pacific Northwest’s landscapes, cultural heritage, and creative pulse. Every piece—found throughout guest rooms and communal spaces—was crafted on-site in the neighboring RailSpur Manufacturers Building, a historic space transformed into a vibrant art studio in summer 2024. The resulting works explore themes of identity, resilience, and transformation, creating an immersive visual journey for guests.
A Model of Mindful Hospitality
At Populus, we believe protecting the planet is a collective responsibility and journey. The heartbeat of Populus is a deep reverence for nature. It started at the beginning with the biophilic architecture and use of locally-sourced, recycled, or sustainably-certified building materials during the construction process. It extends throughout the guest experience, with One Night One Tree initiative, a commitment to source food from regenerative, organic farmers, and an on-site biodigester that composts 100% of food waste. Learn more about our environmental stewardship.
A Spirit of Generosity
Nature is inherently generous: freely giving, sustaining life, and creating abundance. At Populus, we weave this spirit into every detail which is why for every night you stay, we plant a tree. We’re partnering to mitigate climate change by facilitating regionally specific tree planting and ecosystem regeneration in forests.
