This study was based on a design large enough to demonstrate a successful pro forma, while small enough to avoid Seattle’s lengthy and complicated Design Review process. Several explorations led to a strategy that fits twelve generous rental flats on a standard 5,000-sf sloping lot. The finished project may be viewed here.

Leftover hillside is the focus of this study, which aimed to add density in Seattle’s popular Fremont neighborhood. New structures are thoughtfully configured alongside existing buildings to create a campus of different unit types, ranging from Small Efficiency Dwelling Units (SEDUs) to one, two, and three bedroom flats. Progress on this project may be viewed here.

Fitting like a puzzle piece onto a tiny 2,600-sf lot, this study provided proof of concept for a building of four, one and two bedroom rental flats. The limitations of the tight lot were compounded by the setbacks imposed by a corner lot condition. Units were stacked for efficiency above a tidy parking garage. The top floor penthouse uses an upper level setback to incorporate a generous terrace. The finished project may be viewed here.

This study provided clarity on several configurations to fit a single-family residence and Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) onto a forested, steep slope lot. The process explored various methods of stacking the structure to cost-effectively navigate the slope, while establishing sensible floor plans.

Compounding zoning codes, shoreline overlays, and setbacks necessitated this diagrammatic exploration of building massing possibilities. The program included subgrade parking, and four levels of two-bedroom apartment units.

The study optimized a corner lot for a five-level, mixed-use building with two street facing facades. Upper level setbacks were configured as garden terraces for the top floor spaces.

A set of diagrams demonstrated a clear path forward to design, permit, and construct a single-family residence on a forested, steep slope. This study was commissioned by the owners to include with the real estate listing for the property.

The study focused on a reconfiguration of the Gethsemane Lutheran Church in downtown Seattle with an additional five levels of subsidized housing above. Design and program requirements of the religious organization were successfully balanced with the pro forma of the housing group.

The reprogramming of a complicated industrial building was demonstrated along with additional footprint and floor levels. Strategically located circulation cores connect new and old portions of the program.

This study analyzed several scenarios to add floors onto an existing apartment building. Diagrams and pro formas were established to show proof of concept for a maximum of 16 additional units, or a 50% increase in rental units.

This site, zoning, and permitting analysis provides a clear strategy to design, permit and build a 14-unit apartment building on a 5,400 square foot lot within the City of Seattle. Strategic zoning code navigation allows the project to eliminate Seattle’s time consuming and costly design review process. The project type is an important example of the mid-density housing so desperately needed in the Puget Sound region.