Mercy Othello Plaza is a transit-oriented, mixed-use development designed to create a healthier, more resilient community by addressing both the needs of Seattle’s low-income households and the broader urban fabric. Situated just one block north of Othello Station, this six-story building connects residents to the city’s vibrant amenities—parks, schools, grocery stores, and cultural centers—all within a ten-minute walk. The 108 affordable one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments sit atop Mercy Housing Northwest’s offices, creating a neighborhood anchor and increasing the nonprofit’s visibility and accessibility within the community. The design of Mercy Othello Plaza takes full advantage of its location, placing both buildings strategically to face the nearby transit center. Residents enjoy direct visual access to the light rail station from the end of each corridor, reinforcing the building’s connection to the rhythm of public transportation. The bold red and white striped façade along Martin Luther King Jr. Way catches the eye, while the lighter building masses at the corners anchor the structure and frame the residential entry. Energy efficiency is a cornerstone of the project, with thick, 2x8 walls ensuring a quiet, comfortable environment with air infiltration standards comparable to Passive House design. The reinforced windows along the transit and MLK sides further reduce noise, making for peaceful, energy-efficient homes. The design also includes stacked units, vertical circulation cores, and thoughtful building envelope and ventilation strategies, ensuring the building is cost-effective to build, maintain, and operate. The building fosters community interaction, with a multi-purpose space on the second floor that opens onto a courtyard, encouraging social gatherings and engagement. A community kitchen, computer workstations, and Mercy Housing offices serve as gathering points for residents and the broader neighborhood, supporting after-school programs and ESL classes. Mercy Othello Plaza exemplifies how thoughtful, transit-oriented design can support affordable living while fostering connections to both the city and the community.