Situated on a bustling corner of one of Seattle’s most long-established and diverse neighborhoods, East Union is a 144-unit apartment building with ground floor retail embodying the creative energy and approachable community spirit of its Central District locale. Residents of this mixed-income community enjoy a common lounge, fitness center, courtyard roof terrace, and rooftop patio with 360° city, mountain, and water views.  The lobby nods to the 70s, with a relaxed and approachable ensemble of new and old, expressed in a juxtaposition of atomic-era pieces and bohemian found items. Locally commissioned artists and makers take center stage through a collected ensemble of art created in a variety of media.

Themes of redwood forests and rugged surf below rocky cliffs glinting in the sun are woven throughout the interior, reflecting the weathered cedar siding and steel accents of the building’s exterior. Playful surprises include two bold, curvy brass chandeliers salvaged from FX McRory’s former landmark site, a large mural by a neighborhood artist gracing the entry just below the chandeliers, and a mid-century inspired fireplace in the community lounge.

The community lounge, terrace and roof deck all feature gathering spaces to sink into and put your feet up, with comfortably-scaled furniture and intimate groupings including a fire pit and several barbeque and picnic opportunities. The apartment interiors capitalize on expansive windows; modern finishes and clean lines are grounded by earthy wood tones to create bright, warm and airy spaces.

JA.id provided interior design services for East Union, including furnishings and art procurement and installation.

LOCATION Seattle, WA
AREA 8,500 SF
COMPLETED 2017
PHOTOGRAPHY
Lara Swimmer + Tucker English
ARCHITECT Weinstein A+U