The Nook at Northaven and N40 Park

ArchitectureInteriorsLandscape
Written By Poppi Handy

COMMUNITY BRIDGES

DESIGNING CONNECTED LIVING

  • [Design Architect]

  • [Seattle, Washington]

  • [Gaard Development & ReWA]

  • [8,395 SF]

  • [NookatNorthaven]

  • [March 2025]

The Nook at Northaven is a workforce housing project that seamlessly integrates with the Northaven Senior Living campus. It comprises 83 units designed for workforce residents earning 60-80% of Seattle's median income, including studios, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments. The ground floor features an Early Learning Center operated by the Refugee Women's Alliance (ReWA), providing multilingual childcare services accessible to both residents and the surrounding community.

N40 is an innovative open space adjacent to The Nook that serves as a catalyst to unite this multi-generational community and strengthen connections to the broader neighborhood. This thoughtfully designed landscape includes a walking path, p-patch gardens for senior residents, a children's play area, and a public through-block path establishing a valuable pedestrian link between 8th Ave NE and 5th Ave NE, leading to Hubbard Homestead Park.

The design philosophy centers on creating a "town square" atmosphere where residents of all ages can gather, celebrate, support, and help one another. Architectural elements and spatial planning facilitate shared experiences, from fitness and art classes to gardening activities and social gatherings, nurturing a true sense of community where neighbors become friends.

  • Project Type: Mixed-use affordable housing with early childhood education center

  • Units: 83 income-restricted apartments (studios, one and two-bedroom options)

  • Income Requirement: Residents earning 60-80% of Seattle's median income

  • Amenities: Social gathering spaces, outdoor patio, community garden, lending library, access to neighboring fitness center and dining hall

  • Sustainability Features: Bike storage, proximity to public transit, energy-efficient appliances

  • Transit Access: 5 blocks from Link light rail station (15 minutes to downtown Seattle)

  • Notable Features: Intergenerational programming with adjacent senior living facility

  • Special Elements: ReWA multilingual childcare center, N40 open space with p-patch and pedestrian connections

 
Poppi Handy
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