In March, CHS reported on the disappearance of construction cranes and design reviews for new projects on Capitol Hill. There are exceptions. There is also a development to welcome to the skyline in the interconnected zone between Capitol Hill and First Hill.
Capitol Hill’s newest residential development, the Gridline Apartments, has reached near-full occupancy less than a year after opening its doors. The two-building adaptive reuse project developed by SRM Development includes 178 units split between the West Building, with 49 units, and the larger North Building, with 129 units. The development offers a mix of affordable and market-rate housing, catering to a range of renters.
The project has grown up and around the neighborhood’s old Knights of Columbus building. Gridline was born of an overhaul of the landmark-worthy building that surrounded the old structure with new apartments
The smaller West Building opened in November 2023 and achieved 95% occupancy in about nine months. The North Building, which opened in March 2024, reached stabilized occupancy by late January 2025, taking just over 10 months to fill. As of now, both buildings are approximately 97% occupied.
“We’re pleased with how quickly these buildings have filled,” said Mike Erickson of SRM. “The location, amenities, and quality of the buildings have resonated with renters.”
Still, in this zone just off Capitol Hill’s Pike/Pine neighborhood and on the edge of First Hill, you may not have noticed the new Gridline’s rise.
The original plan remains to keep the Knights of Columbus building as a commercial component of the project and not turn it into apartments. SRM paid $18.55 million for the 112-year-old clubhouse building and surrounding parking lots as the local Knights chapter sold off its valuable asset. The last tip-off on the Knights’ home court took place in 2018 — though the space was put back into motion by a gym business for a time as SRM waited for redevelopment windows to line up.
Built in 1913, the original Knights of Columbus building has been preserved and renovated for use as commercial space. Under the Pike/Pine Conservation District, this project was allowed additional height because it retains a historic “character structure.” “Unlike other developments, Gridline will retain the entire historic structure, not just the street-facing façades,” the developers said.
How commercial tenants will line up for this component of the project remains to be seen.
In line with Seattle’s Office of Housing Program 6 guidelines, 20% of the units at Gridline are designated as affordable housing for eligible lower-income households. The remaining units are offered at market rates, with studios starting at $1,875, one−bedroom units ranging from $2,455 to $2,770, and two−bedroom units priced between $3,015 and $3,995. Pricing varies based on factors such as floor level, unit size, and views.
The Gridline Apartments are designed to appeal to a diverse community, including young professionals, families, and artists, SRM says. The development includes MFTE (Multi-Family Tax Exemption) units, ensuring accessibility for households with varying income levels.
“We aimed to create a welcoming space for everyone,” Erickson said. “Whether you’re new to the city or looking for a vibrant community, these buildings have something to offer.”
The Gridline Apartments are located within walking distance of grocery stores, restaurants, bars, schools, and hospitals. The buildings feature modern finishes, high-quality appliances, and amenities such as a rooftop deck with views of the surrounding area. Additional perks include ample parking and on-site management.
“The roof deck has been particularly popular,” Erickson noted. “It’s a great space for residents to relax and take in the views.”
Unlike many mixed-use developments, the Gridline Apartments do not include street-level retail space in either building. However, the proximity to nearby businesses and amenities ensures residents have easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
SRM Development, the firm behind Gridline, has a history of residential projects in the Seattle area. Their portfolio includes the Astro Apartments near Seattle Center and the Lyric Apartments above Broadway.
“We prioritize building solid, high-quality structures,” Erickson said, emphasizing that both the West and North buildings meet all safety and seismic requirements.
With both buildings now fully leased, the focus shifts to maintaining the quality and community that have made Gridline a success. The development team is confident the apartments will continue to attract renters seeking modern, accessible housing in the neighborhood.
Gridline Apartments is located at 1421 Harvard Ave. Learn more at gridlineseattle.com.
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What’s the plan for the Knights of Columbus building? It’s still fenced off.