The Seattle Design Commission Chair Julie Bassuk today announced the winners of the Commission’s 2010-2011 Design Excellence Awards. The five winning projects were selected from the many public buildings, parks, open spaces, and vision plans completed in Seattle in the past two years. They were chosen because they promote the mission and exemplify the values of the Design Commission: inspired design, contextual integration, innovative sustainability, social inclusion, exemplary partnerships, effective investment, and impeccable execution. For the first time an “In the Works” award will be given to a project that hasn’t been constructed, but has had an exemplary design process and holds outstanding potential.

[More]

The City Green Building team takes an exciting new step in 2012. Beginning in January, part of the “green team” will join forces with the Office of Sustainability and Environment (OSE). Staff focused on policy development will become part of OSE, and those focused on green codes and permitting will stay with the Department of Planning and Development (DPD), as part of the Operations Division. As this next step unfolds, both DPD and OSE will continue to develop and implement innovative approaches to building sustainable neighborhoods.

[More]

The City Council recently adopted legislation to establish a transfer of development potential (TDP) program for the Pike/Pine neighborhood, providing an additional tool for maintaining existing, older buildings that contribute to the neighborhood’s special character and are considered key to the area’s success as a growing business, arts and residential community.

[More]