The Project
The project ‘Lakeview Lofts’ was designed by Carsten Stinn Architecture. Two existing L2 lots were combined and through multiple iterations the project has been optimized for functionality, energy performance, and modern design. We strived to create a lasting and defining community asset which can demonstrate the possibilities of innovative and sustainable housing design within the confines of current zoning/building codes.

This project is a new unique interpretation of dwelling within city limits. We have abandoned the current model of ‘profitability-by-cheap-formula’ in order to support the ‘community model’. The concept for the project was conceived out of the conviction that multi-family sites can be developed in a fresh new way and set itself apart from cookie-cutter development that we see all over Seattle. We decided to not maximize the number of units allowed – in order to create a larger community space, and to maintain a size of dwelling that can house families and individuals alike. The neighborhood character of single-family neighborhood was respected by the massing of the buildings. Eastlake has a wide eclectic variety of architectural styles – telling a story through time from the 20’s. This project is building on the history of the neighborhood pointing at the future.

Melding the worlds of in-town condominium living and single-family home ownership has produced a product that is unique and emphasizes a sense of community – within both the micro and macro level. The homes allow people to find their own refuge in personal spaces.

This project has enabled uncompromising design and construction techniques, material and fixture choices in order to achieve low long-term operating and maintenance costs. The homes have been submitted for a LEED platinum and Green- Built 5 star rating.
The goal was to re-think speculative housing design and construction under sustainable parameters in order to adequately respond to current environmental pressures and imperative new housing trends. We successfully submitted the project to a voluntary “Administrative Design Review” with the City of Seattle and were granted departures from the current zoning code. Departures which enhanced the livability and sustainability of the living spaces as from:'privacy' requirements and 'alley only access', which allowed for a shared green courtyard space - with native plants, patios, and shared walkways, to become the heart of the project (instead of fencing and paved surfaces).

Our goal was to inspire more location-driven design which will enhance neighborhood character – rather than applying a boiler plate template to any location. Every site has its own set of conditions; our site on Minor Ave E. is characterized by a gentle east-west slope, which brings in lots of western light and sunsets. The view of Lake Union and a wide grassy green strip turn into a beach in the summer months; with neighbors lounging in the front yards, playing badminton and Frisbee or getting ready for a boat tour on the Lake. The outdoor space around the homes and the entrance to the site is inviting neighbors to interact in their community.