Most services are available online through our Virtual Applicant Services Center. For customers who need language assistance or technical assistance accessing the Virtual ASC, we have an SDCI information desk on the 4th floor of the Seattle Municipal Tower. We offer limited access to our offices for scheduled public meetings.
We are seeking candidates to fill multiple board positions, with terms beginning April 4, 2024. Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. on January 28, 2024. To be considered for appointment, please send an application, cover letter, and resume to Erika Ikstrums.
Applicants should have knowledge of, or interest in, architecture, urban design, and the development process. They should have the ability to evaluate projects based on the City’s design guidelines, the ability to listen and communicate effectively, have a passion for urban design and community development, and the ability to work well with others under pressure. Prior experience with community or neighborhood groups is a plus. Board members must live in the city. They should expect to work 15 hours a month attending and preparing for two evening board meetings a month. Board members are expected to attend at least 90 percent of the meetings.
All Design Review Board meetings are held online. Please visit our Virtual Design Review Board meetings page for more information and how to comment.
Watch our What is Design Review video for an overview of the program objectives and the three paths of Administrative Design Review, Full Design Review, and Streamlined Design Review. 
Design Review is one of the tools we use to create a better city. It gives everyone an opportunity to shape the design of many new multifamily and commercial buildings. It also offers flexibility with the Land Use Code requirements.
The Design Guidelines are tools that we use to review how new buildings fit into and relate to the surrounding neighborhoods, including things like:
There are three types of Design Review. SDCI Design Review staff review many smaller buildings through Streamlined Design Review and Administrative Design Review. Larger buildings may require Full Design Review, which includes both public Design Review Board meetings and review by City staff. All Design Review includes an opportunity for public comment and involvement.
Learn About Upcoming Reviews and Design Review
Comment on a Proposed Design
The Design Review Boards and staff welcome public comment on project designs. Public comment helps the Design Review Boards and staff understand important design issues as they review the project.
Apply to serve on a Design Review Board
Each year the City asks for volunteers to serve on the Design Review Boards.
For questions, please contact Erika Ikstrums, erika.ikstrums@seattle.gov.
Get Involved with a Neighborhood Group
Neighborhood groups are community organizations that operate separately from City government. They may focus on many topics important to their neighborhoods, and often comment on proposed Design Review projects. To get involved:
View Design Review Calendar
Search Project Reviews
Research My Property
Comment on a Project
Check Permit Status
Submit Your Packet
Download the instructions
Ready to send? Upload your packet
Use the Applicant Guide to prepare and submit your material/color board
Ask Us
Most services are available online through our Applicant Services Center.
Online
Design Review Permit – Full Review
Design Review Permit – Administrative Review
Design Review Permit – Streamlined Review
Design Review – Stakeholders Meetings
Send Us a Question
Nathan Torgelson, Director
Address: 700 5th Ave, Suite 2000, Seattle, WA, 98104
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 34019, Seattle, WA, 98124-4019
Phone: (206) 684-8600
Phone Alt: Violation Complaint Line: (206) 615-0808
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SDCI issues land use, construction, and trade permits, conducts construction and housing-related inspections, ensures compliance with our codes, and regulates rental rules. SDCI is committed to an antiracist workplace and to addressing racism through our work in the community.