The (possibly) exceptional cedar (Image: CHS)

This could be the view on the west side of 19th and Mercer. Note: no (probably) exceptional tree

With the demand for new housing on Capitol Hill attracting a pack of national developers to the neighborhood, a new project proposed for the northwest corner of 19th and Mercer has a more local flavor.

CHS told you last week about the planned 1803 E Mercer project designed to create a five-story apartment building sharing the block with longtime 19th Ave E restaurant Monsoon and an existing office building.

Neighbor and longtime landowner Amanda Twiss sent CHS an email and more information about the project after reading our post:

Thanks for your article about our building on East Mercer. My husband (Glenn MacDonald) and I are the owners and long-term Capitol Hill residents.

We’re really excited about the project. When we bought the property many years ago, it was to allow me to do a start-up technology business close to our home and close to Stevens Elementary (where my sons attended school and I served as a PTA Board member). We had no idea that 19th and Mercer was going to become such a vibrant centerpiece of our community–and it’s exciting to contribute to this growth.

The project will take its first pass in front of the design review board Wednesday night.

1830 E Mercer St

Design review Early Design Guidance application proposing a 5-story apartment building containing 30 units above retail. Parking for 12 vehicles to be provided. Existing structure to remain. Project may include the removal of an Exceptional Tree. View Design Proposal      

Review Meeting: September 16, 2015 6:30 pm, Seattle University, 1020 E. Jefferson St, Chardin 145

Review Phase: EDG–Early Design Guidance

Project Number: 3020860  View Permit Status  |  View Land Use Notice

Planner: Beth Hartwick

“Building on the new energy of 19th Avenue,” the project is designed by Seattle’s PUBLIC47 Architects. “The new boutique ‘jewel box’ will mirror the look and feel of 19th Avenue East by blending authentic materials with a sophisticated urban attitude,” according to Twiss. The plans call for about thirty “elegant” apartments, underground parking for 12 vehicles, and  2,000 square feet of retail space.

“On the ground floor, we’re hoping a new restaurant or interesting shop will add to the choices that already exist here, making this end of 19th even more of a destination,” said Twiss.

The “preferred” design from being put forward by the developers will require the board to allow the removal of a large cedar tree on the property that will likely qualify for “exceptional tree” protections. “Extending the east facade of the building along 19th Ave E. further north, thereby removing the exceptional tree, allows for a larger, more continuous commercial facade at street level, and additional units above,” the proposal reads.

Monsoon and the other businesses on the property will remain open throughout construction.