Designed and built in collaboration with Mithun Architects and The Schuster Group, Mosler Lofts is the first condominium development in Seattle to receive silver LEED certification. Located in the Belltown District of Downtown Seattle, this urban ecological model serves as the northern portal to Seattle’s Greenstreets and a poignant connection between nature and the urban environment. By reintroducing habitat to a previously un-vegetated site, the water efficient, low maintenance landscapes adorn the building from ground level to the rooftop, conveying stormwater into the planted areas, encouraging infiltration and transpiration into the natural system while easing the burden on the urban watershed. The 3,000 square foot rooftop with stunning views of Downtown, people can experience the value of an urban garden while enjoying regional views of mountains, water and islands. The living roof provides residents with social gathering spaces, such as a fire circle, and provides the building itself with added insulation, stormwater retention and filtration. By providing landscape on street level, and a rooftop garden, this project gives the public and homeowners many opportunities to enjoy and connect with nature in the urban setting. Photos by Steve Young.