Pacific Place, Reimagining a Downtown Landmark Through Transparent LED

Overview

Pacific Place is a centrally located shopping and gathering destination in downtown Seattle. The goal of the project was to rejuvenate the space, increase foot traffic, and transform the mall into a vibrant community hub. ClearLED partnered with the client to deliver a five-story transparent LED installation that serves as both an architectural centerpiece and a dynamic digital canvas.

The Challenge

Pacific Place needed more than a traditional display. The space required a solution that could:

• Preserve natural light from a large glass skylight

• Remain visually open and breathable near escalators

• Avoid heavy structural reinforcement

• Support high-resolution, large-format content

• Act as a social and cultural focal point for the mall

Traditional LED solutions would have blocked light, added significant weight, and required costly structural builds. The client needed a solution that balanced performance, transparency, and feasibility.

The Vision

From the outset, ClearLED approached the project as a placemaking opportunity, not just an LED installation.

Early concepts explored multiple display ideas and configurations. Through collaboration and refinement, the vision evolved into a single, bold centerpiece: a transparent LED screen positioned in front of the escalators, designed to activate the vertical space while maintaining openness and natural light.

The intent was clear. Create a destination that could host digital art, live events, sports, and community-driven content while revitalizing the atmosphere of the mall.

The Solution

ClearLED proposed and delivered a five-story, freestanding transparent LED structure using the Micromesh Tour 3.9mm product line.

Key elements of the solution included:

• High transparency to preserve daylight and sightlines

• Lightweight construction to minimize structural impact

• Full rear service access, including a hidden catwalk for maintenance

• Integrated audio, concealed behind the screen for immersive sound

• Fast installation, enabled by modular design and integrated cabling

Originally designed for rental applications, Micromesh Tour proved ideal for a permanent architectural installation due to its flexibility, speed of install, and low power consumption.

Technology Highlights

• Micromesh Tour 3.9mm transparent LED

• Largest deployment of this product line to date

• One-person handling per 1m x 1m panel

• Integrated data cabling within cabinets

• Low power usage  

• Max ~300W per square meter

• Average ~150W per square meter

• High brightness suitable for environments with heavy natural light

• Ultra-large format display delivering 8K resolution

Content Strategy

The display was designed to be more than visual impact. It was built to activate the space.

Content includes:

• Local and regional digital artwork

• Seattle and Washington State–inspired visuals

• Live sports and events

• Broadcast TV, weather, and news

This mix allows Pacific Place to shift seamlessly between art, information, and entertainment, turning the installation into a living, evolving feature of the mall.

The Result

The Pacific Place installation has become a defining feature of the space.

• A true architectural centerpiece

• A gathering point for visitors and events

• A platform for local culture and community engagement

• A modern symbol of reinvestment and revitalization

By combining transparency, scale, and storytelling, ClearLED delivered a solution that goes beyond display technology. It reshaped how the space is experienced.

Conclusion

Pacific Place demonstrates what is possible when LED technology is integrated thoughtfully into architecture. Through collaboration, innovation, and a clear vision, ClearLED helped transform a traditional retail environment into a dynamic urban destination.

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