Client
ROQ LLC
Location
Seattle, Washington
Size
6,800 SF
Timeframe
2024 – 2025
General Contractor
AVARA Construction
Climbing Wall Consultant
Maverick Climbing
Photography
Doug Scott Photography
ROQ is a purpose-built indoor climbing training facility that reimagines how climbers train, blending the energy of group fitness with the technical rigor of climbing. Designed in close collaboration with founder Michael Hauss, the space supports a new model of high-intensity, instructor-led classes that combine climbing, rowing, and strength training into a cohesive, performance-driven experience.
At the heart of the project is a dynamic training hall defined by a series of fixed and adjustable steepness climbing walls. Integrated lighting, audio, and a restrained material palette – black climbing surfaces, exposed wood structure, and industrial steel – focus attention on the athletes and their movement, reinforcing the intensity of the environment.
The entry sequence establishes a clear transition from street to training. A refined reception area with custom millwork, faceted wall panels, and branded signage introduces the ROQ identity with precision and clarity. Beyond, large glass doors reveal the training space, offering an immediate visual connection to the activity within.
Supporting spaces were designed with the same level of care as the training floor. Locker rooms feature warm wood tones, terrazzo flooring, and frosted glass partitions, creating a clean, calm counterpoint to the high-energy gym. Amenities such as saunas, showers, and lockers elevate the post-workout experience, reinforcing ROQ’s emphasis on detail and user experience.
The facility balances raw performance with intentional design – combining durable, high-performance materials with moments of refinement. The result is an environment that supports both elite training and community, embodying ROQ’s mission to make climbing more structured, accessible, and engaging.
”Mark and team did a great job at implementing my intent given the ambiguous direction. Upward communicated quickly and clearly, which went a long way in ensuring smooth project execution across multiple specialty vendors.
The permitting challenges on my project were complex. Mark and team surfaced issues early and often to ensure we could compress the timeline as much as possible. Once permitting challenges were addressed, the project executed exactly on schedule thanks to Upward, Avara Construction and other specialty vendors.
Overall, Upward Architecture contributed significantly to project completion under budget while still maintaining an incredibly high-quality bar.
Michael HaussFounder & CEO, ROQ Climbing
