Cypress is located in Seattle’s Yesler neighborhood, which is transforming into a diverse and vibrant mixed-income community. Cypress’s concept of outside-in seeks to maximize residents’ experience of nature at all times.

Common spaces are connected both vertically and horizontally, from the main lobby entry fronting a neighborhood park to the courtyard and roof decks overlooking the city park. The connection from the exterior to interior is expressed with roof and floor planes that extend out towards the surrounding open spaces. Interior spaces with plantings and natural finishes extend the exterior into the building.

Healthy living and a strong connection to nature are evident in the main staircase. This welcoming, sunlit space overlooks a park, while natural materials – such as cedar and brick – evoke the building’s Pacific Northwest regional architecture. The indoors extend outside with trellises and covered seating areas scattered throughout. The roof decks and courtyard provide spaces for residents to lounge and enjoy framed views towards mountains in the distance.