Dexter Townhomes

Located in Seattle’s Westlake neighborhood, this 14-unit townhome project is comprised of three structures oriented around a common courtyard. This central outdoor space is designed to be a respite from the traffic of Dexter Ave and a common place of interaction between residents. Angled planters provide directionality to unit entries, create private pockets for benches and decks and add an organic vibrancy to the neutral material palette. Where not impacted by privacy concerns, maximum amounts of glazing were applied to the north and east elevations, particularly at the east building whose floor to ceiling windows capture views of the activity on Lake Union. Each unit also has a private roof deck offering panoramic views of the lake.

Situated on a significant slope, the units and courtyard sit atop a common garage accessed from the alley. The garage houses the vehicular and bicycle parking, solid waste containers, storage lockers and MEP requirements for the project. In addition to the alley entrance, the garage is connected to the units by a central stair in the courtyard and from the basements of the west building. As the topography drops from the street to the alley, a board formed concrete wall serves as a backdrop for climbing hydrangea at the sidewalk edge.