When Macy's closed their landmark downtown Spokane department store in 2016, the community was concerned about the future of the historic building and the gap it could leave in the neighborhood’s fabric if it were torn down or changed dramatically. Fortunately, the property was purchased with the vision of renovating the building in a manner that would maintain the vitality of the community. The redevelopment transformed the nine-story building into “The M,” a modern, mixed-use structure with street-level retail and 114 upper-floor apartments.

The renovation maintains the overall shape of the original structure including the iconic angled front façade and corner street-level entryway. Designers chose to carry forward classic lines and elements that echo the past, while incorporating new, contemporary elements and material to match the neighborhood’s progressive downtown vibe. Other elements of the new building borrowed from the old store include a grid pattern integrated into the angled façade, an earth-toned exterior, street oriented access, and two glass skywalks that join the building to adjacent properties. For residents, shared amenities include two fitness centers, a yoga room, two resident lounges, and a business center.