WORLD ARCHITECTURE / THE LOUPE GIVES EVERYONE A BETTER VIEW OF SEATTLE FROM 500 FEET

GUEST BLOG / BY CNN Travel--Last week, the $100 million dollar renovation of Seattle’s landmark Space Needle was completed and open to the public.

Famous since 1962 the Space Needle, unveiled its latest addition: the world's first and only revolving glass floor, known as "The Loupe." Standing 500 feet -- or 50 stories -- above street level, the observation deck's new see-through floor offers 360-degree views over the northwestern US city.

The floor is powered by 12 motors and, as reassurance to the faint-hearted, is constructed of 10 layers of tightly bonded glass.

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More than a million guests already pass through the Space Needle annually, with the new attraction sure to bring in a fresh rush of thrill-seekers.

Fifty-six years after the Needle was built for the 1962 World Fair, the futuristic structure's even more futuristic facelift is taking place under the guidance of Olson Kundig -- with the original architect's blessing.

Walls, barriers and entire floors have been replaced by clear structural glass to expand views.

WHAT’S NEW AT THE SPACE NEEDLE.

1. Skyrisers are fixed benches, where you can sit and revolve 360 degrees.

2.  Atmos Café/Snack Bar

3.  Ocukus Stairs connects top observation levels

4. The Loupe will floor you.  Step onto the new revolving glass floor with Seattle at your feet, literally.

5. Atmos Wine Bar.  Enjoy a sip of Seattle’s great beer, tea and coffee 500 feet off the ground.

Atmos Wine Bar.  Really high even before your first sip of under rated Washington State wines

MORE TO COME. The floor of the rotating restaurant SkyCity is set to become glass as well, and is set to reopen in 2018.