DXU

DXU is a distinctive seven-story apartment building in Seattle’s University District featuring Small Efficiency Dwelling Units. Its playful façade stacks dwelling modules in a pattern that hints at shipping containers. A bright red textured metal exterior brings energy to the neighborhood and nods to the region’s port history. Two complementary colors highlight the container-inspired modules and add depth to the building’s form. The 99 apartments are designed for students and young professionals near the University of Washington. Large windows brighten each compact unit, and efficient layouts maximize usable space. A rooftop deck with barbeque offers 360-degree views of the city, mountains, and Lake Union. Storage needs are supported by a convenient bike room and garden-level lockers. DXU uses ecologically sensitive strategies including solar panels, high-performance insulation, programmable thermostats, ultra-efficient heat pumps, permeable paving, drought-tolerant plantings, sedum roofing, and bioretention planters. These measures earned the project a Built Green 4 Star rating.