Yesler Terrace is a 30-acre site near downtown Seattle originally developed by the Seattle Housing Authority (SHA) in the early 1940s as the city’s first publicly subsidized housing community. In 2006, when it had become evident that Yesler’s infrastructure and 561 aging housing units needed to be replaced, SHA began a conversation with residents, surrounding neighbors, city officials, key partners and the citizens of Seattle.A vision took shape for transforming Yesler Terrace — a site with great potential due to its central location close to jobs, public transit options and beautiful views — into a model community. Michael Courtney Design was invited to participate in the project by SHA. Yesler was the original “Skid Row,” where oxen skidded huge trees to Henry Yesler’s sawmill; home of both the first City Hall; and, since the late 1800s, an elementary school. The first assignment: develop placemaking, wayfinding, and interpretive elements for the site. Our second: signage and graphic standards for the public residences.
