Canlis and Crush

In 2006, Canlis was named to the Seattle Design 100+ for being a “stunning tribute to Northwest design” and decades ahead of its time when Peter Canlis conceived it in 1949. (The restaurant continued its winning tradition in late 2007 with Restaurant Neighbor, National Restaurant Neighbor and Santé Restaurant awards as well as the Mayor’s Small Business Award.)

Also on the original list, Doug Rasar, who orchestrated the restaurant’s most recent redesign in 2005, was lauded for his ability to create unique interiors that meet each individual client’s needs but with a regional sensibility that gives his projects a strong sense of place. Canlis’ first major facelift, in 1984, was directed by Jean Jongeward and its 1996 remodel and expansion was the work of architect Jim Cutler (a 2007 Seattle Design 100+ honoree). Another 2006 honoree, David Pfeiffer created the restaurant’s gardens.

Crush, too, was honored in February 2006, commended for its “crisp, modern interior.”