Discover Seattle Through Architecture and Design
For nearly five decades, Seattle Architecture Foundation has connected people to the stories of our city through architecture, education, and community engagement. We believe every place has a story, and every design shapes those stories.
What began as a shared passion for Seattle's built environment has grown into a nonprofit organization that welcomes thousands of residents and visitors each year to discover Seattle's history and the innovative architecture and urban design that continue to shape our city's identity and national reputation. Along the way, our work has expanded through
partnerships with schools and community organizations, creating meaningful opportunities for students to explore architecture and design while opening doors to new perspectives and future pathways.
As Seattle has evolved, so has our work. Today, we continue to celebrate architecture while helping people appreciate the influence of design and understand how the built environment shapes our neighborhoods, strengthens our communities, and creates new possibilities for Seattle's future.
Our Mission
Seattle Architecture Foundation connects people to the stories of our built environment through education and community engagement, developing a deeper understanding of how design shapes the places we live and inspiring participation in what is created for future generations.
Our Vision
We envision a future where the influence of design is understood, the built environment is valued, and every community is inspired to be engaged in the future development of the city.
Our Core Values
Education
Through our educational programs and events, SAF engages youth and adults with the built environment. We explore architecture as a visual record of our collective history, a force that shapes our daily lives, and a blueprint for our future.
Empowerment
Connecting the community with its architecture and design instills a lifelong commitment to and responsibility for the built environment. SAF believes an architecturally informed population is better equipped to advocate for design choices that best serve their community.
Excellence
SAF provides an opportunity for people to enhance their design knowledge, allowing them to seek and recognize excellence according to their own values and experience. SAF offers the highest quality programs and events, and serves as a community resource for information on the built environment.
Community
The architecture of our communities reflects who we are and who we want to be. Through collaboration with community organizations and our volunteer‐driven programs, SAF facilitates connections and open dialogues between the many diverse voices of our city.
Equity
SAF is committed to racial and social justice, by providing equitable access to our programs, fostering a diverse volunteer corps, offering resources for civic engagement, and creating programs that represent diverse viewpoints within the city of Seattle.
Volunteerism
In collaboration with SAF staff, much of our programming is developed and delivered by volunteers. Volunteering with SAF offers opportunities for professional development, leadership, and deeper engagement with Seattle’s architectural community. Learn more about SAF's volunteer opportunities
Integrity
The architecture of our communities reflects who we are and who we want to be. Through collaboration with community organizations and our volunteer‐driven programs, SAF facilitates connections and open dialogues between the many diverse voices of our city.
