The project: Red Cedar – Yesler, a new construction 119- unit midrise is the fourth affordable housing project in Yesler Terrace, a large public housing district situated near downtown Seattle.

Project amenities: The Red Cedar project features 119 residential units, including Breathe Easy and accessible units, designed to support low-income families. Amenities include public and resident community rooms, a playground, a mail lobby, staff offices, and support spaces, with a two-level concrete parking structure partially buried in the north hillside, serving as a podium for the wood-framed apartment structure above. The project also includes a parking garage with 74 stalls.

Design approach: IMEG provided comprehensive mechanical and plumbing engineering services for the Red Cedar project, also known as Yesler Terrace Phase III, from Schematic Design through Construction Administration. Our team collaborated closely with the owner and design team, offering expert input on sustainability requirements, equipment coordination, and system integration, including innovative solutions like solar pre-heat for domestic hot water and rainwater harvesting for toilet flushing. Throughout the project, IMEG ensured compliance with the 2012 Seattle Energy Code, performed detailed system coordination, and provided on-site construction observations to ensure the final installation met design intent and project goals.

Project Outcome: The multi-family residence presents an opportunity to establish a model community, enhanced by its panoramic views and prime location, close to jobs and public transit, with a strong sense of community nurtured by nearby parks, and a community center.