A multifamily development offering 244 residential units continues to move through Seattle’s Design Review process. The project, proposed by High Street Residential, was recently cleared by the city’s Northeast Design Review Board during a recommendation hearing earlier this week.
The project would take shape at 6716 Roosevelt Way NE and is designed by Weinstein A + U. In total, the building would reach eight stories and occupy approximatelyl 240,000 square feet. As well as the residential units, the project would also include various tenant amenity spaces, a 1,250 square foot retail space at the ground level, coworking space and 16 parking spaces.
“Our goal is to provide high quality transit-oriented housing in a building that enhances the neighborhood fabric and is welcoming and interesting to pedestrians as well as residents,” said Emily Aune, architect at Weinstein A + U.
During a previous early design guidance meeting, the board approved of a design concept that includes large ground level setbacks and undulating bays. The building would also be under cut along 68th to further activate the street level. Larger massing cutouts are also positioned to balance and break up any repetition in the building.
“This reverse granulation echoes the large-scale moves at the top and gives the facade and overall dynamism and provides a varied spatial experience for pedestrians on the sidewalk and residents in the ground level units sections show the very relationship between the units and the sidewalk. Some unit terraces are below grade, some at grade and some above. The resultant form has straightforward massing, subtle articulation, texture provided with slots and balconies, consistent pattern, and rhythm, massing and fenestration,” Aune said.
According to the design proposal, the project would utilize a limited mix of colors and materials to enhance the massing and modulation of the approved scheme. The building would use a mix of white and gray stucco, black metal panels, aluminum decking and glass.
At the pedestrian level, the project also provides a mix of public and private areas. A mezzanine level along 68th Street will provide a lounge and coworking space. Planters along the edge of the building are also designed to act as a buffer from the road.
Overall, the board approved of the project, particularly noting its approval of the modulation and how it helped to mitigate the height and the bulk and scale of the building. However, in moving the project forward, the board also offered guidance and several conditions for the project team to consider.
The board asked that the team study the material and color palette further. In addition, the board suggested studying the south facade further and how it can be stepped back. The board also suggested the project team open up the corner further and provide clear differences between residential and commercial entryways.
