Welcome to Haller Lake—my neighborhood, and one of North Seattle’s most quietly transformative communities. As the host of American Dream TV: Selling Seattle, I have the privilege of exploring the places, people, and policies shaping how we live across our region. Few changes have had as much impact on Seattle’s residential landscape in recent years as middle zoning and the growing role of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and Detached Accessory Dwelling Units (DADUs).
In this episode, filmed right here in Haller Lake, I set out to explain what middle zoning means, why it matters, and how ADUs and DADUs are redefining urban living in Seattle neighborhoods people already love.
What Is Middle Zoning in Seattle?
Washington State House Bill 1110 marked a pivotal moment in land use policy. Often referred to as “middle housing” legislation, it allows for increased residential density in areas historically zoned for single-family homes. Rather than relying solely on large apartment buildings or high-rise developments, middle zoning supports more incremental growth—duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, courtyard housing, and, importantly, ADUs and DADUs.
The goal is simple but powerful: create more housing options in established neighborhoods without fundamentally changing their character. For Seattle, a city facing long-term housing supply challenges, this approach opens doors for homeowners, buyers, renters, and multigenerational families alike.
ADUs and DADUs: The “Adu-Adoo” of Urban Living
In real estate terms, ADU stands for Accessory Dwelling Unit, while DADU refers to a Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit. These homes go by many informal names—mother-in-law units, backyard cottages, or carriage houses—but their purpose is consistent: provide flexible, independent living space on an existing residential lot.
An ADU is typically located within the primary home, such as a basement or lower-level apartment with its own kitchen, bathroom, and entrance. A DADU, on the other hand, is a separate structure, often built in the backyard.
Seattle has become a national leader in encouraging ADU and DADU development, and neighborhoods like Haller Lake offer clear examples of how these homes can be integrated thoughtfully and successfully.
A Haller Lake Original: The Little Cabin DADU
One of my favorite examples is what I like to call the original DADU of Haller Lake—the Little Cabin. Built in the 1940s by a local resident named Paul Loggerstrom, this log cabin originally served as storage for fishing gear and a boat. Over the years, it became more legend than living space.
In 2010, the Downey family thoughtfully renovated the structure, transforming it into a functional and charming detached dwelling unit. It’s a reminder that while the term “DADU” may feel modern, the concept itself has deep roots in Seattle’s history.
This kind of adaptive reuse highlights how ADUs and DADUs can preserve neighborhood character while adding meaningful housing capacity.
The Traditional ADU: Flexible Living Within the Home
Another common and highly effective model is the internal ADU. In one of my listings here in Haller Lake, a 3,000-square-foot, four-bedroom home includes a fully self-contained apartment on the lower level.
This ADU features a private bedroom, full bathroom, kitchen, living area, and additional flex space—along with its own access to the backyard. For homeowners, this type of setup offers incredible flexibility. It can support multigenerational living, provide rental income, or adapt to changing needs over time.
From a market perspective, homes with legal, well-designed ADUs are increasingly attractive to buyers seeking long-term value and versatility.
Co-Housing and Community: The Crow Woods Project
Perhaps the most exciting example of middle zoning in action is Crow Woods, located near the Northgate and Haller Lake area. This project represents a broader vision of community-focused development.
Crow Woods is the realization of a longtime dream by Jane Lester, a retired Seattle pediatrician who wanted to create a true co-housing environment. By combining two existing lots, the project introduces nine thoughtfully designed residences—each with a primary unit and an ADU—along with shared green spaces and a common house.
Residents share more than walls. They share meals, responsibilities, and a sense of connection that’s often missing in traditional housing models. This is middle housing at its best: higher density, intentional design, and a strong sense of place.
Scheduled for completion in fall 2025, Crow Woods demonstrates how middle zoning can foster community while addressing housing demand in a sustainable way.
Why ADUs and Middle Zoning Matter for Seattle’s Future
Seattle’s growth is not slowing, and neither is the need for diverse housing options. ADUs and DADUs provide solutions that benefit homeowners and the broader community:
Affordability: Smaller units typically cost less to rent or purchase than standalone homes.
Aging in Place: Homeowners can downsize into a DADU while renting the primary residence—or house family members nearby.
Rental Income: ADUs can help offset mortgage costs and increase long-term financial stability.
Neighborhood Stability: Gentle density allows communities to grow without displacement or dramatic redevelopment.
From a real estate standpoint, middle zoning and ADU-friendly policies are reshaping property values, development opportunities, and buyer expectations across Seattle.
Looking Ahead
As both a local broker and a lifelong Seattle resident, I see ADUs, DADUs, and middle zoning not as abstract policy concepts, but as real, livable solutions. Haller Lake’s evolution—from wooded lots to thoughtfully increased density—reflects the broader story of Seattle adapting to change while honoring its roots.
Exploring these spaces on American Dream TV allows me to share that story with a national audience, but the impact is felt right here at home.
Thank you for joining me on this journey through Haller Lake and Seattle’s middle zoning movement. The future of urban living is already taking shape—sometimes right in the backyard.
Have an Adu-Dadu day.
