Designing a "Home for Now": Mary's Place Featured on America ByDESIGN™

We’re excited to share that Mary’s Place Family Center in The Regrade is featured on America ByDESIGN, a television series that celebrates the best in architecture, design, and innovation across the country.

Filmed in Seattle with presenter Kyla Kuhnlein, the segment highlights the story behind the project and the people who helped bring it to life. During the visit, Kyla speaks with Graphite Principal Peter Krech, Lead Designer Kim Krech, and Dominique Alex from Mary’s Place about the vision for the shelter and how thoughtful design can support families navigating one of life’s most difficult transitions.

Being featured on America ByDesign is a meaningful moment for our team, and we’re grateful for the opportunity to share the story of this project and the collaboration that made it possible.

Watch full episode here: America ByDESIGN™ Season 5: Episode 4

Check out other featured projects through AIA Seattle's Honor Award program.

Designing with Purpose

Mary’s Place Family Center in The Regrade was designed as Mary’s Place’s first permanent shelter for families with children experiencing homelessness. Located in the heart of downtown Seattle within Amazon’s Block 21, the project opened in early 2020 and expanded the organization’s shelter capacity in King County by 50 %.

Through an early visioning and programming process, the design team worked closely with Mary’s Place to translate their mission and services into a purpose-built environment—one that supports families with spaces for rest, connection, and access to essential resources as they work toward stable housing.

To explore the project in more detail, visit the full project page.