AMLI South Lake Union is a multi-phased apartment community in the evolving South Lake Union (SLU) Neighborhood. GGLO’s integrated design for AMLI SLU was based on the character of its location and residents while focusing on a cohesive vision that bridges both phases of the development.
With typical programmatic needs met in phase 1, phase 2 offered a new opportunity to have amenities defined by the growing movement towards low-tech craft. GGLO and AMLI partnered together to design a residence that was unique in its amenity offerings, informed by those that lived in the neighborhood. These amenities are unique in a multi-family setting and begin to solve the challenges of living in an apartment lifestyle. Urban density no longer limits your options for creative outlets and pursuits – there is now a space dedicated to these activities that brings together a new group of residents that is energized by tactile hobbies. These ‘raw’ spaces are the utility kitchen and the plywood clad workshop that offers tools and access to Shop-Vacs and air compressors (among other devices). The utility kitchen plays on the growing ‘slow-food’ movement and provides ease of access to space and products for activities such as canning and home-brewing. Where AMLI SLU 1 took you on a journey from amenity space to amenity space, SLU 2 has more reflective uses for these areas.
AMLI SLU 2 is centrally focused with many of the entrances and amenities facing towards an outdoor covered courtyard at street level. An upper-level solarium is a beacon to the neighborhood and acts as a refuge, providing views of the city and Lake Union. This space is for reflective observation of the neighborhood that is the development’s namesake. A lush green wall offers a connection to the outside views of Lake Union while suspended swing chairs provide a relaxing place to soak in the beautiful scenery.