Family Workshops

Designed with younger children in mind (ages 5-12 with chaperone), our Family Workshops encourage children and their caregivers to explore architecture through hands-on activities. Workshops begin with an exploration of exciting examples of architecture and activities that highlight the design process. Then, the kids are off–designing and building their own structures in a whirlwind two-hour workshop that culminates in a group presentation. 

Beginning Fall 2025, SAF Family Workshops are being held in partnership with the YMCA of Greater Seattle to reach more families in our region. Workshops will take place at various YMCA locations and registration is handled through the YMCA system. 

Discounted tickets are available for children of SAF members. Email info@seattlearchitecture.org to receive your discount code. If program admission is a barrier for your family, contact the YMCA about scholarship assistance. 

Design at Your Desk

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic the Seattle Architecture Foundation created “Design at your Desk” a series of design challenges for youth of all ages and abilities. Draw a picture, make a model, and share your design with us on social media with the hashtag #SEAarchitecture!

Two adults and a child immerse themselves in a family architectural workshop at the table, surrounded by cardboard and Styrofoam materials for their creative craft project.

Design at your Desk PDF Downloads

Art Outside the Lines 
Main Streets 
Tiny House 
Transportation Challenge 
Playing in the Rain 
Play Spaces for Everyone 
About Time 

If you enjoy these programs please consider making a donation to SAF so that we may continue providing public programming. 

Past Family Workshops

Bridges

Gardens and Greenhouses

Homes for Animals

Skyscrapers

Design Your School

Edible Structures

Museums

Seattle Waterfront

Libraries

Micro Cities

Piers

Castles

Parks

Bridges

Winter Wonderland Edible Structures

Design & Build Animal Homes

Changing Climates: Wetlands, Conservation, and Coral

Re-imagining Play Structures

Homes for Animals

Classrooms: Design Your School

Building for the Community

Candy Land: Designing Edible Structures

Micro Cities

Food Gardens and Greenhouses

Forest Forts

Bridges

Lighthouses

Fantasy Buildings

Treehouses

Outer Space Structures

Gingerbread Houses

Islands