PROJECT NAME LOT SIZE BUILDING SIZE LOCATION PROJECT ...

ARCHITECT | 2013 ANNUAL DESIGN REVIEW

PROJECT NAME

47+7 Apartments

LOT SIZE

6,420 SF

BUILDING SIZE

16,525 SF

LOCATION

Seattle, WA

PROJECT TYPE

Multi-Family Housing

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47+7 Apartments | Seattle WA 47+7 makes an immediate impression; the unique visage of its steel exoskeleton communicating the gravity of its innovative design. However, taking a closer look at this apartment building reveals subtle refinements. In contrast to the rigid outer structure, a softer element emerges through the sheen of the exterior skin, resulting in a display of ephemeral colors. Yet further inspection presents outstanding attention to detail; fine grain patterning in the railings, back-lit metal signage, and an abundance of foliage and community seating — lending a quality of modernity, yet with a sense of timelessness. 47+7 was conceived from a union of structural form and practical function, built from a kit of unique and patent-pending prefabricated parts, and inspired by the technology and natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. The project features 24 units at 466-595 sf each. The structure is a steel frame with concrete slab on grade. Levels 2-6 are composed of a total of 129 discrete floor, wall, and roof panels, delivered pre-assembled with plumbing, electrical, fire sprinklers, and finishes fully integrated. This allowed a lean construction crew of just 10 people to handle 90% fewer parts than typical for a building this size, cutting construction time by 50% and delivering a highly sustainable, aesthetically appealing building.



ARCHITECT | 2013 ANNUAL DESIGN REVIEW

The walls are structurally insulated panels, prefabricated to a tolerance of less than ¼”, creating superior moisture, thermal, and acoustic performance. Solar panels heat water for domestic use and hydronic radiant heat, providing heating and hot water 10 months out of the year. The interior casework has a recycled core with bamboo veneer. Each unit contains an all-in-one electrical panel, enabling 15 low voltage LED light fixtures to be employed. All 500+ lights on the building use merely 0.4 watts per sf; less than 50% of the energy code, and wireless smart home technology facilitates additional energy savings. Monthly electric bills are around $7/month/ unit. With its iconic form and highly visible site, 47+7 serves as a new landmark for sustainable living in Seattle’s University District. The property’s small footprint makes it a generous, contextual neighbor. Open circulation and thoughtful community space foster an active and social lifestyle. Small space living is optimized by a flexible wall grid that can be used to hang shelves, artwork, or outdoor equipment. 47+7’s design achieves transparency through floor-to-ceiling glazing and open circulation, while the structure conveys strength and stability conducive to feeling at home and comfortably secure.

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Residents enjoy energy savings, wireless smart home technology, proximity to Seattle's University District, and numerous transportation options



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Spectacular views from the open circulation encourage an active lifestyle 5

Full scale mock-ups of two units were constructed in a south Seattle warehouse in 2011



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Additional views of the warehoused full size mock-ups



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Small space living is optimized at 47+7 with abundant daylight, an open plan, and a flexible wall grid for shelving or hanging art

Solar array provides heating and hot water 10 months of the year



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Each unit has an all-in-one electrical panel which enables 15 low voltage/LED light fixtures to be employed (upper right) 9

Site plan showing an aerial view of the location (left) and Streetscape study (above)



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Design studies for resident entry and circulation (left) and East Elevation (right)



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Levels 2-6

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Level 1

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Detail of the steel exoskeleton anchored in concrete



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