PFHC Investments and Johnson Braund are bringing plans for a mixed-use hotel & housing project at 601 Aurora Avenue before the design review board on tonight for early design guidance. While that already stands out in terms of the kind of mixed-use projects we're used to seeing go up around Seattle, this one is going to offer some unique housing options. Plans call for a seven or eight story building that contains a mix of hotel units for short-term guest stays (around 130 units) and furnished apartments for resident stays greater than 30 days (around 123 units). Residents and hotel guests will share a ground level lobby, dining and amenity spaces including a coffee shop and an outdoor covered plaza. Outdoor amenity spaces will also include terrace courtyards on the second level and a large rooftop terraces. Parking for about 195 vehicles will be located below grade. As for the design, plans call for the use of simplified building materials with a focus of open space and opacity by using glazed facades, punched openings and balconies. You may remember this spot as the former home of the Church of Scientology. From now on it'll be a church to short-term living.
· 601 Aurora Ave N [DPD]