Johnston Architects’ New Multifamily Model
ORIGINALLY APPEARED IN SEATTLE DAILY JOURNAL OF COMMERCE ON SEPTEMBER 3, 2025.
BY NINA MILLIGAN
Shared Roof in Seattle's Phinney Ridge neighborhood is redefining multifamily living, prioritizing community bonds and shared resources to address the growing need for hyper-local connection in urban settings.
This mixed-use building, completed in 2024, aims to grow resident and neighborhood connections through a community-forward design and unique ownership model.
Shared Roof's living-in-community model began with the built environment: first-floor retail activates the street; a public courtyard expands informal interactive space; and extensive rooftop shared space gathers residents.
Shared Roof in Seattle’s Phinney Ridge neighborhood offers a novel ownership model. / Photo by Andrew Storey
Shared Roof in Seattle’s Phinney Ridge neighborhood offers a novel ownership model.
A mix of living spaces for singles and families, including two- and three-bedroom units, target a variety of life stages. Family-sized units allow those who wish to continue living in the city, near work and friends, at a time when many families retreat to the suburbs.
The project was designed by Johnston Architects (JA) and initiated by developer and restaurateur Chad Dale.
According to the Urbanist (April 2024), Shared Roof's ownership is neither co-op nor condo. Investors, who can be residents, own a share in the building's LLC. Resident investors pay market rate for their units.
Investors contributed anywhere from $50,000 to $5 million in the project and own a percentage of shares based on the size of their investment, according to The Urbanist.
Aerial view of Shared Roof demonstrates the building’s namesake. / Photo by Andrew Storey
“It's designed to keep us connected and in community while simultaneously enjoying the benefits of multi-family living, cost savings that occur through sharing resources, and the financial benefits of homeownership,”
- Chad Dale
The conservatory on the roof enables year-round outdoor living. / Photo by Andrew Storey
Here are some of the ways Shared Roof aims to build community:
1. Diverse options: With 35 units catering to various family sizes / life stages, Shared Roof creates a multi-generational community that reflects the richness of urban life.
2. Ownership opportunities: Residents can purchase shares in the property, fostering a sense of pride and long-term investment in the community.
3. Shared spaces: A 4,500-square-foot greenspace, fitness room, guest suite, and rooftop area with a kitchen and greenhouse encourage frequent interactions among residents.
4. Resource sharing: From gardening tools to bicycles, shared resources not only reduce costs but also create opportunities for collaboration and mutual support.
5. Mixed-use design: The ground floor retail spaces, featuring local businesses like Lioness restaurant and Holy Mountain Tap Room, serve as community hubs where residents and neighbors can gather.
Multi-story courtyard provides vertical community living. / Photo by Andrew Storey
Shared Roof also offers about 20% affordable units under Seattle's MFTE program.
According to the Shared Roof website, by way of MFTE an affordable one-bedroom unit would go for $1,714/month for those who qualify. See https://sharedroofseattle.com/mfte
There is one market-rate, one-bedroom unit currently available. It goes for $3,299/month
Shared Roof is targeting LEED Platinum certification.