Blakeley Manor

Seattle, WA
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Keywords: Affordable Housing, Community, Energy Performance, Housing, Low-Rise, Residential, Seattle
  • Architect GGLO (RDH Client)
  • Owner Seattle Housing Authority
  • Completion Date 2018
  • Size 70-unit, 41,600-sf
  • Services Provided Building Enclosure Consulting, Code Analysis
  • Photography Khoi Ly Photography
Blakeley Manor is a 70-unit senior housing community owned and managed by the Seattle Housing Authority. Located along the Burke-Gilman Trail in Seattle’s University District, the four-story building includes one- and two-bedroom units ranging from 518 to 821 sf. Its location offers residents convenient access to public transit, shopping, and community amenities.

RDH, serving as the Architect of Record in collaboration with GGLO, led a full exterior wall rehabilitation to improve the building’s envelope performance and extend its service life. The project replaced the original stucco cladding with a higher-performing wall assembly that significantly improved waterproofing, air barrier continuity, and thermal performance.

The rehabilitation included new plywood sheathing, a liquid-applied water-resistive air barrier, and a continuous layer of 1 ¼” high-density mineral wool insulation. This assembly was clad with fiber-cement siding, providing a 1-hour fire rating from both the interior and exterior, as well as between floors.

To secure approval for the assembly, RDH prepared and submitted a Code Modification Request demonstrating compliance with the intent of the 2006 Seattle Building Code (Sections 720 and 721.6 for fire-resistance-rated wood assemblies and Sections 104.9 and 104.10 for alternate materials and methods). This approach increased the building’s fire safety while delivering thermal and durability benefits.

Tatley-Grund served as the builder for the project, which was designed to minimize disruption to residents while achieving significant long-term performance improvements.

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