Client
Plenty of Swift
Location
SEA Airport, Washington
Size
6,800 SF
Timeframe
2018
Plenty of Swift was conceived as a warm and welcoming wine and beer bar at SEA International Airport, inspired by the extraordinary story of the University of Washington’s 1936 Olympic Rowing Team. Nicknamed “Plenty of Swift” by sportswriters of the era, these nine working-class young men captured the world’s attention when they came from behind to win gold in Berlin. This concept celebrated their legacy while highlighting the enduring culture of rowing in the Pacific Northwest, pairing a compelling local narrative with an inviting dining and retail experience for travelers.
The design took its cues from turn-of-the-century boathouses across the region, with a warm, natural palette and tactile materials that brought the story to life. A genuine Pocock wooden shell at the storefront served as a striking landmark, alongside a historic photograph of the 1936 team from the UW archives. Inside, a curated wine shop and Boys of ’36 retail section anchored the submission.
Finishes and surfaces were chosen for their renewable, recycled, or certified content, while high-efficiency ovens, refrigeration, and LED lighting reduced environmental impact. Low-flow plumbing fixtures and a proactive maintenance plan further supported energy and water conservation. The menu emphasized locally sourced meats, cheeses, fruits, and nuts, and the beverage program focused on a rotating selection of Washington wines and artisan beers, alongside a “Captain’s List” of rare vintages from around the world.
More than just a place to eat and drink, Plenty of Swift was designed as a hub for storytelling and cultural exchange. Eclectic décor, including trophies, regatta schedules, and rowing club colors, offered conversation starters, while the staff—trained as ambassadors for local wine, beer, and rowing—connected with travelers from all over the world. Whether ordering a quick snack before a flight or settling in with a glass of Pinot Noir and a chapter from The Boys in the Boat, guests would have experienced a sense of place rooted in the values of teamwork, perseverance, and Northwest pride.
Although Plenty of Swift was not selected in the Port of Seattle’s competitive process for restaurant vendors, the project demonstrated how a thoughtful fusion of design, narrative, and regional authenticity could create a memorable airport dining experience.
