Student Work

Course Description

EASTLAKE – Community Trust

Student: Alisa Udalov
Studio: ARCH 302 — Zahra Rasti & Veronica Restreppo — Spring 2025
Location: Seattle, Washington

Project Description

Community Trust reimagines a key corridor in Seattle’s Eastlake neighborhood as a place where everyday interactions strengthen neighborhood connections. As Eastlake continues to evolve, the project responds to the challenge of preserving the area’s close-knit character while accommodating growth. Drawing inspiration from the neighborhood’s small waterfront beaches, benches, and informal gathering spots, the design identifies trust and social connection as Eastlake’s defining qualities and brings them to the center of community life.

The project combines housing, retail, and public outdoor spaces into a connected urban hub. New residential buildings provide opportunities for people to live within walking distance of local businesses and shared amenities. Ground-floor retail activates the street and supports neighborhood activity throughout the day. Between these uses, a network of outdoor alleys and gathering spaces creates inviting places for neighbors to meet, relax, and interact. These spaces extend the welcoming atmosphere found along Eastlake’s shoreline and weave it into the heart of the neighborhood.

By blending living, shopping, and social spaces, Community Trust creates a framework for growth that prioritizes human connection. The design demonstrates how thoughtful urban development can reinforce existing community values while creating new opportunities for residents to engage with one another.

Images from EASTLAKE – Community Trust.