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The hubbub about the Cosmopolitan may be the first, but most certainly not the last the problems Seattle will face inside the lovely little zone (see diagram) inside which there is no required separation between each building.  That means if they want to, buildings can be built next to each other to the extent that they are almost kissing.  

The first to voice complaints about this absolutely crammed arrangement were residents of the Cosmopolitan who realized that another development was about to spring up right in front of their views–a mere 18 feet away.   Other threats to space and view are already in the works with a 500ft tower planned near the the 31 floor Escala project, which is still under construction, and the other, intended as a 39-story residential building, will be built to the south of Cristala.

Although some developers have shown foresight for things like this, such as in 2005 when the those of Harbor Steps and The Four Seasons who teamed together to purchase the airspace above the Lusty Lady, not everyone is buying the air, and there will quite probably be more things like this to come.

 The PI has a bit of advice when it comes to avoiding frustrations like those suffered by residents of the Cosmo:

• Ask the developers what they know about nearby proposals and what zoning would allow, and whether they have bought air rights for surrounding lots to protect views and privacy.
• Look up the zoning of surrounding sites and understand what that zoning allows.
  
• Check surrounding addresses for project applications already filed, sign up for the notification lists for those projects so you get notice of any changes and check back regularly to look for new applications on other sites.
  
• Ask city planners about possible upcoming changes to what zoning would allow nearby.
  
• Comment in writing and at design-review hearings about proposed projects.
  
• Hire a land-use lawyer to do all this for you.
  Find information for Seattle by going to seattle.gov/dpd and clicking on “Research” for zoning maps, and “Notices” and “Permits” for information on proposals, or go to the Seattle Department of Planning and Development Public Resource Center, on the 20th floor of the Seattle Municipal Tower, 700 Fifth Ave. The center is open from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday, and from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday, and can be reached at 206-684-8467.
  
• And remember, it may not be possible to promise nobody ever will be able to build in front of your condo.
  

Read more from P.I. article.  “Condo owners struggle for views as Seattle rises”

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