Grata at Totem Lake

FOREST SANCTUARY

SHAPING AFFORDABLE HORIZONS

• ROLE:

  [Design Architect]

• LOCATION:

  [Kirkland, Washington]

• CLIENT:

  [TWG]

• SIZE:

  [73,718 S.F.]

• LINKS:

  [Live at Grata]

• COMPLETION DATE

  [June 2024]

Grata at Totem Lake is a 125-unit affordable housing project nestled within a unique forested steep slope site. The development sensitively incorporates an environmental growth protection area (EGA) on a portion of the parcel. The design process required extensive coordination with civil engineers, shoring engineers, landscape architects, and arborists to protect the natural environment while maximizing affordable housing opportunities.

The architectural approach celebrates the site's distinctive character, offering residents tranquil views of the preserved forest or panoramic vistas across Totem Lake. This harmonious integration of nature and housing creates a peaceful living environment rarely found in affordable developments.

Beyond its natural setting, Grata's strategic location provides exceptional access to community resources. Residents enjoy walking distance to the newly developed Totem Lake Park and the Eastrail multi-modal path, fostering active lifestyles and alternative transportation options. The proximity to the revitalized Totem Village (formerly Totem Lake Mall) offers abundant opportunities for employment, shopping, dining, and essential services—truly creating a livable, connected community.

The design successfully balances environmental stewardship with housing equity, demonstrating that affordable housing can be both respectful of natural contexts and rich in amenities. Grata at Totem Lake stands as a model for how thoughtful architecture can create accessible housing opportunities while preserving and celebrating the natural environment.

• Project Type: Affordable housing with forest integration

• Units: 125 apartments (studio, one, two, three, and four-bedroom options)

• Site Features: Preserved forest area, Environmental Growth Protection Area

• Amenities: Laundry facility, secured parking garage, 24-hour maintenance

• Interior Features: Glass stovetops, black appliances, hardwood flooring

• Transit Access: Minutes from Interstate 405

• Notable Proximity: Totem Lake Park, Eastrail multi-modal path, Totem Village

• Special Elements: Forest views, lakefront vistas, sensitive slope construction

• Sustainability Focus: Forest preservation, natural habitat protection

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Photos are credit of TWG and Venture

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