The Escala penthouse that inspired Christian Grey’s sleek apartment in the bestselling ‘Fifty Shades of Grey’ book series (and subsequent movie adaptations), is looking for new owners.
But it doesn’t come with a ‘Red Room’ or the ‘filthy rich bachelor’ look made famous by E. L. James’ immensely popular novels. In fact, it’s quite a sophisticated residence that might be a better fit for more discerning buyers.
Now listed for $11.5 million with Phil Greely of The Agency Seattle, the penthouse sits atop one of the city’s most exclusive high-rise residential buildings, the 31-story Escala building in the heart of downtown Seattle.
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The Escala unit that inspired Christian Grey’s penthouse
The penthouse, which ‘Fifty Shades’ author E.L. James found as an online listing when researching her first book — and later visited in person — is located on the 30th floor of the Escala building at 1920 4th Avenue in downtown Seattle.
Ever since the first book was released in 2011, the Escala has become a tourist attraction, with fans of the books and movies that followed flocking to Seattle in hopes of catching a glimpse of Christian Grey’s penthouse.
Occupies half a floor, with 180-degree views of the city
Spanning 5,180 square feet, the penthouse commands half of the 30th floor of the building, offering 180-degree views of Elliott Bay, the Olympic Mountains, and city landmarks, with the iconic Space Needle in full view.
Penthouse 101 at the Escala has 3 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, private elevator access, and 4 parking spots, and is now being offered for sale at $11,500,000. Phil Greely holds the listing.
Inside, it looks completely different from its movie counterpart, as no scenes were filmed here
While the elegant residence may have inspired Christian Grey’s penthouse, no interior scenes have been filmed inside the unit.
Establishing shots did capture the Escala building, but all scenes taking place inside the penthouse were filmed on a set, which explains why it looks completely different from its movie counterpart.
Accessed via private elevator
Some similarities do exist though, including the private elevator leading up to the penthouse.
But the overall design moves away from the ‘Fifty Shades’ aesthetics, and sets the tone with a striking vestibule featuring plaster relief walls and handmade Moroccan tiles.
Completely remodeled, now boasting designer interiors
The beautifully appointed interiors bear the signature of Seattle-based interior design firm, NB Design Group, who meticulously revamped the interiors.
The primary bedroom offers sweeping Seattle views
With a front-row seat to Seattle’s landmark buildings and Elliott Bay unfolding right outside its window, the primary bedroom is a highlight of the unit — and comes with its separate seating area and walk-out balcony.
And has an Ipe-clad walk-in shower
The generous views continue in the en-suite bath, which also features an impressive Ipe-clad walk-in shower with a freestanding tub.
With a private balcony overlooking the city
In terms of outdoor space, the penthouse features a generously sized balcony with ample seating, outdoor dining, a BBQ, and lounging space.
Enjoying all the upscale amenities at the Escala
The sophisticated residence, which also has a statement bar next to an elegant home office space, also comes with access to Escala’s posh amenities — including a 24-hour concierge, a gym, two swim spas, an owners’ lounge, and locker storage.
The movie version of the penthouse
While sharing a building — and the same showstopping views — with the Escala residence, Christian Grey’s penthouse in the movies takes things up a notch, being described as a lavish 30,000-square-foot home in the sky with a modern, masculine aesthetic.
Built entirely on a set, the movie home is best remembered for its Red Room, a hidden, soundproof space reserved for Christian’s most intimate endeavors. If you ask us though, we’ll trade the Red Room for that dreamy walk-in shower any day.
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