Fans of Fifty Shades of Grey already know about Christian Grey's penthouse apartment in Seattle's Escala, but only the diehards know that it's a real building. When the author E.L. James heard about the luxury condominium being finished in 2009, she decided to make it the kinky character's home—after making some fictional additions, of course. With the upcoming film adaptation, Escala is becoming a Seattle landmark and fans have even started dropping by for photos. Even better news is that while 97 percent of the residences are sold, there are still six penthouses available to call home. This is as close as you are ever going to get to Christian Grey, so we definitely recommend taking action.
Back in 2013, the largest Escala penthouse at 5,100 square feet sold for $6.2 million, which according to the building's real estate broker Erik Mehr, was the highest price paid at the time for a condo in Seattle in three years. And that was two years ago, long before the Fifty Shades of Grey film trailer was released. More recently, Mehr told CNN that his phone has been ringing off the hook, with women aged anywhere between 19 and 50 calling to request a night's stay or a photo session in Christian's sexually-charged penthouse. "I don't think they realize that this is a condominium building that residents live in and there is no red room," he said.
While the most expensive penthouse has already been bought, there are six more left with prices starting at $1.8 million. Each one offers 180-degree views of the city, Elliott Bay, and the Olympic Mountains. While they don't have the red room (or a helicopter landing pad on the roof—sorry), you can still tell your book group that you live in Escala.
It's also important to note that security measures have been stepped up due to Escala's growing popularity. After all, once you move in, you probably won't want crazed fans begging to take selfies on your terrace. There have been perks though, like the time the author gave a private book signing for all residents. The exterior was even used in the movie itself. The property value is also continuing to climb thanks in part to the book series, which certainly can't hurt.
For penthouse specifications, contact Escala.
