AIA Washington Civic Design Awards, Merit Award, 2025
Pacific Coast Builders Conference (PCBC) Gold Nugget Awards, Best Affordable Housing Community, Award of Merit, 2025
Seattle, WA
Preserving Affordability at a Prime Location
Located within the Yesler Terrace redevelopment area, 13th and Fir provides affordable housing for low-income families near transit, jobs, healthcare, education and cultural amenities. More than half of the units are reserved for existing families from the Yesler community, a historically integrated area of Seattle surrounded by neighborhoods with a high risk of displacement.
Integrating Childcare with Housing
On a highly accessible corner adjacent to a public elementary school, the Denise Louie Early Learning Center provides affordable childcare for residents and the surrounding community. Vertical colored glazing bands integrated into the façade enliven the space and create a cheerful beacon in the neighborhood.
Serving Diverse Needs
Amenities serve residents of all ages and are grouped to promote social interactions. The outdoor play area is seamlessly integrated with the north residential courtyard, allowing shared use by the childcare center as well as families after hours and on weekends. This innovative design was the first to receive approval from Washington state childcare licensing reviewers.