Kirkland, WA June 2025 by City Lifestyle

Futurecast Forum 2025

The Futurecast Forum is a real estate industry think tank offering timely insights, expert perspectives, and interactive events to help you stay informed and activated within an ever-changing housing market landscape.

This month, we’re proud to share the release of our 2025 Market Report—a comprehensive look at the economic forces, housing trends, and policy shifts influencing real estate across our region. Designed to support confident decision-making, this resource empowers buyers, sellers, brokers, and investors alike.

Inside the report:

•2025 Housing Overview

•Mortgage & Inflation Trends

•House Bill 1110 Impact

•$90 Trillion Great Wealth Transfer

•Local Market Data Highlights

•New Development & Urban Demand

Dean Jones President and CEO Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty

Explore the insights and discover what’s driving the market—and how it may impact your next move.

The Men's Issue

In honor of Father’s Day this month we asked a few local fathers to share some special memories, as well as some cherished advice they’ve learned from their father. Reflecting on one of the questions asked (what words of wisdom did your father teach you), here’s what came to mind for me:

My dad leads by example, he’s action oriented, especially when it comes to what he’s passionate about. He’s extremely humble, all while being a high achiever, intelligent, and generous. He seeks out adventure and prioritizes time in nature. He’s always been supportive with my career choices and entrepreneurial ideas. This just scratches the surface, so you could say I’m pretty lucky and blessed!

What comes to mind when watching my husband father our children is similar.

As an entrepreneur and Ironman athlete, I see him teaching our kids to confront hard things, put into action what you're passionate about, take wise risks, and have fun while doing it all. Our family rules are “honest, loving, kind, and brave”, and fortunately he not only tells but shows are kids how to live that way.

If you are a dad, Happy Father’s Day! And if not, we hope you take the time to celebrate the father figure in your life this month.

CAITLIN AGNEW, PUBLISHER @KIRKLANDLIFESTYLE

June 2025

PUBLISHER

Caitlin Agnew | caitlin.agnew@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Taylor Robinson | taylor.robinson@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Taylor Robinson, Chris Ishii

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Life N Light, Seattle Sounders FC, RSIR

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders

AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall

LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

city scene

Kirkland Lifestyle and Bellevue Lifestyle Present ‘Cocktails & Conversations’ 1-7: This past April, we celebrated a memorable evening of ‘Cocktails and Conversation’—an intimate gathering hosted by Taylor Robinson, Publisher of Bellevue Lifestyle, and Caitlin Agnew, Publisher of Kirkland Lifestyle to celebrate and thank the incredible advertising partners and creative collaborators behind both publications. Held at Jocovine Bistro in Bellevue, guests enjoyed live music by the talented Susan George, curated bites and drinks, and a night of connection and community in appreciation of their ongoing support.

Want to be seen in the magazine?

Gala 2025 8: Sterling Adlakha and Jasjit Foster capture the night in the photo booth. 9: Dessert Dash: Dessert Dashers sprint to select their tables treat. 10: Max Rombakh and Ben Brittingham interview Jilyne Jarvis, CEO & Founder of ZGiRLS, prior to the gala. 11: Panel - Moderator and Olympic medalist Courtney Thompson, Olympian Alice Merryweather, Olympic medalist Kim Hill. 12: ZGiRLS Board of Directors: (L-R) Jilyne Jarvis,

ZGiRLS

Shauna Murphy Cour, Maddie Heye, Kayla Sander, Robin White, Meredith Sciarrio, Deidra. 13: Trevor Thompson, Kadie Thompson, Craig Thompson celebrate the evening with smiles. 14: Christian Palefau and Sierra Blendow ready themselves to raise their paddles.

Photography by Jane G. Photography

Fresh Finds and Local Vibes at Kirkland’s Wednesday Summer Market

The Kirkland Downtown Market is a beloved summer tradition held every Wednesday from 3–7 PM at Marina Park. This vibrant, family-friendly market features fresh produce, local artisans, gourmet food vendors, and live entertainment—all with stunning lakefront views. It’s the perfect midweek outing to shop local, enjoy delicious eats, and support small businesses in the heart of downtown Kirkland. Join the community and soak up the summer vibes at this lively open-air market!

Therapy Lab Launches in Kirkland and the Greater Seattle Area

Breakthrough mental health brand Therapy Lab is now in Kirkland and the Greater Seattle area! Founded by psychologist Dr. Chandler Chang. Therapy Lab delivers efficient, focused, science-backed therapy plans designed for real life. From anxiety and insomnia to self-confidence and emotional clarity, clients get practical tools that work—smart therapy for modern life. Prioritize your well-being. Own your goals. Thrive with Therapy Lab.

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The Somm. Hotel & Spa Redefines Luxury in Woodinville Wine Country

Opening summer 2025, The Somm. Hotel & Spa brings casual elegance and indulgent hospitality to the heart of Woodinville. Featuring 164 beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites, elevated dining, a rooftop lounge with panoramic views, and the serene Vin de Spa, it’s an ideal escape for wine lovers and wellness seekers. With thoughtful amenities and immersive experiences, this highly anticipated hotel is set to become one of Washington’s premier destinations for an unforgettable stay. Visit thesomm.com

Leading with Vision: Alair Kirkland Shines at Annual Convention

Alair Kirkland attended Alair’s annual convention in San Diego, where industry experts shared insights on trends like advanced lighting and home automation. Owner Stacy Eakman was a featured speaker, pre senting “The Power of Accountability and Mindset.” Alair received awards for Best Operational Values and 2025 Best Custom Build $5M+. Stacy also earned the Alair Maverick Award, honoring visionary leaders who inspire innovation, uphold integrity, and set a high standard for excellence across the industry.

H E A D S H O T S

HOME TURF ADVANTAGE

Sounders FC Player, Jordan Morris

Seattle is no stranger to soccer greatness—but the next two summers promise to be truly historic. As the city prepares to take the global stage as a host for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, its deep soccer roots and electric fan culture are already on full display. From record-setting attendance at Lumen Field to a growing list of international milestones, no club has done more to elevate the sport in the Pacific Northwest than Seattle Sounders FC.

Before 2026, another global spotlight is headed to Seattle: the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. Hosted across the U.S. from June 15 to July 13, the tournament features top clubs from each of FIFA’s six confederations. Representing MLS, Sounders FC—still the league’s only Concacaf Champions Cup winner—will face international giants like Paris Saint-Germain, Botafogo, and Atlético Madrid in the tournament’s “Group of Death”.

HOW THE SEATTLE SOUNDERS ARE SHAPING FIFA 2026

ARTICLE BY TAYLOR ROBINSON

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SEATTLE SOUNDERS FC

With six Club World Cup matches set to be played at Lumen Field—three featuring the Sounders—Seattle will once again find itself at the center of global soccer. It’s a moment not just for the team, but for the city as a whole—and for the next generation of players watching from the stands.

We sat down with key Sounders figures to reflect on what this moment means for Seattle, the community, and the future of the game...

JORDAN MORRIS

Seattle Native & Professional Soccer Player for Seattle Sounders FC and USMNT

AS A SEATTLE NATIVE, WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO YOU PERSONALLY TO SEE YOUR HOMETOWN HOST THE FIFA WORLD CUP IN 2026?

It’s awesome that Seattle gets to host games for the World Cup, especially having U.S. Men’s National Team come here. I think the city deserves it. This has

been a huge soccer town since before the Sounders came to MLS in 2009, but since then we’ve really seen the attendance and fanbase that we have here. The excitement around soccer in this city is huge. Our fans deserve it and it’ll be incredible to see the biggest stage in the world come to Seattle.

WHAT KIND OF IMPACT DO YOU THINK THE WORLD CUP WILL HAVE ON YOUNG PLAYERS AND THE FUTURE OF SOCCER IN OUR COMMUNITY?

I think you see soccer already growing so much. More young players are deciding to get into soccer vs. other sports, and I think the World Cup is only going to accelerate that process. They’ll get to see the biggest players in the world fighting for what everyone dreams about when they start playing soccer, which is going to the World Cup and winning a World Cup. For the kids that are able to go to the games and see them live, or even watch on TV and see Seattle, it’s going to be great for the next generation.

Sounders Fans

BRIAN SCHMETZER

“OUR GOAL IS TO SHOW THE WORLD WHAT MAKES SEATTLE SPECIAL — A CITY WHERE SOCCER ISN’T JUST A GAME, IT’S A SHARED IDENTITY.”

Head Coach, Seattle Sounders FC

FROM YOUR PERSPECTIVE AS HEAD COACH, HOW DO YOU SEE THE WORLD CUP ELEVATING THE GAME IN SEATTLE AND THE BROADER PNW?

World Cups are big events, massive events. It’s called the World Cup because every country in the world gets to compete for a trophy. Based on that, combined with the

history and growth of soccer in this country, I think this is going to really put Seattle and the Pacific Northwest on the soccer map on a worldwide basis. We will have fans coming in from potentially every continent on the planet, and those fans are going to experience what we get to see every day – a beautiful town, our climate, the mountains, the Sound – and people are going to know that Seattle is a wonderful place. I think it’s going to do wonders for our area.

ASHLEY FOSBERG Chief Impact & Fan Engagement Officer

HOW IS THE CLUB PREPARING TO LEVERAGE THE GLOBAL SPOTLIGHT OF THE WORLD CUP TO STRENGTHEN COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND INSPIRE THE NEXT GENERATION OF FANS?

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is a unique opportunity to expand our impact and deepen community ties. We’re growing RAVE Foundation initiatives, creating more open play spaces and partnering with local schools and nonprofits to ensure that access and inspiration reach every neighborhood. Our focus is on legacy — using this moment to introduce the game to new fans, empower youth through soccer and to build lasting programs that reflect the diversity and passion of our region. We’ve proudly committed to 52 mini-fields across the State of Washington as part of these efforts, allowing free play for all in time for next year’s World Cup.

SEATTLE HAS LONG BEEN KNOWN FOR ITS PASSIONATE SOCCER CULTURE. HOW DO YOU PLAN TO SHOWCASE THAT SPIRIT TO THE WORLD DURING THE 2026 WORLD CUP?

Seattle’s soccer culture is vibrant, inclusive and fan-driven — and we’re excited to put that on full display to the world. We’re planning fan-forward events, storytelling campaigns and citywide activations that highlight our supporters and community values. From iconic matchday experiences to grassroots celebrations, we’ll ensure every visitor feels the heartbeat of Rave Green culture. Our goal is to show the world what makes Seattle special — a city where soccer isn’t just a game, it’s a shared identity.

Head Coach, Brian Schmetzer

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A D U

WHAT HOUSE BILL 1110 MEANS FOR THE FUTURE OF OUR COMMUNITY

Rewriting the Neighborhood

ARTICLE BY CHRIS ISHII | PHOTOGRAPHY BY RSIR

Matthew Gardner

Dean Jones, CEO | Realogics Sotheby's International Realty

Tadashi Shiga, Co-Founder | Realtie

“The lack of attainable housing is not just a supply issue— it’s a zoning issue.” -Matthew Gardner

In neighborhoods across Mercer Island, Bellevue, Kirkland, and Snohomish, a quiet but powerful shift is underway. Backyards, driveways, and empty side lots may soon take on new life, thanks to House Bill 1110 (HB 1110)—a bold new law reshaping residential zoning across Washington State.

Passed in 2023 and now taking effect, HB 1110 requires many cities to update zoning codes to allow two to six housing units on parcels previously limited to a single home. That means duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, and cottage-style clusters could soon sit side by side with traditional houses.

The question isn’t whether change is coming. It’s: How ready are we to shape it?

A LAW BORN OF URGENCY

Washington’s housing shortage didn’t happen overnight. For years, demand has outpaced supply, pushing home prices beyond reach for many families. Zoning restrictions that limit development to one home per lot—particularly in job-rich cities like Bellevue and Kirkland—have made it difficult to accommodate growth.

“Three-quarters of Seattle’s land is still zoned single-family,” says Dean Jones, President and CEO of Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty (RSIR). “That model worked in the 20th century—but not for the realities of today. HB 1110 is potentially offering more attainable ways to live where you work.”

And this is not optional. For cities with populations over 25,000—including all four highlighted in this magazine—HB 1110 is a mandate.

SO, WHAT WILL IT LOOK LIKE?

Picture this:

• A homeowner builds a backyard cottage for a parent or tenant.

• A single-level home is thoughtfully redeveloped into a triplex.

• A corner lot transforms into a small cluster of homes, designed to complement the neighborhood.

This is called “ missing middle housing”—a style of gentle density that fills the gap between single-family homes and large apartment buildings. And it’s exactly what HB 1110 encourages.

According to real estate economist, Matthew Gardner, “The lack of attainable housing is not just a supply issue—it’s a zoning issue. Missing middle housing helps solve both by increasing inventory without changing the character of our communities overnight.”

INNOVATION AT THE FOREFRONT

Still, navigating these changes isn’t easy. That’s where technology and expertise come in—and why RSIR has become a recognized leader in this space.

Dean Jones and his team aren’t just interpreting the law—they’re building the future. RSIR is piloting AI-powered tools that analyze zoning, land potential, and market value—helping brokers and property owners understand what’s possible.

At the center of this innovation is Tadashi Shiga and Ofer Avnery, Co-Founders of Realtie, an AI platform built to streamline infill development. Realtie lets users visualize development potential, model financial returns, and identify risks—all before the first permit is filed.

“Most homeowners don’t realize they’re sitting on untapped potential,” Shiga says. “With the right insights, a single lot can become a retirement plan, an income source, or a multigenerational solution.”

He and Jones are working closely to train brokers, educate communities, and connect residents with a full-service ecosystem—from planning to permitting to resale.

WHO CAN BENEFIT?

This new framework opens doors for:

• First-time buyers priced out of traditional homes

• Multigenerational families wanting to stay close

• Empty nesters seeking to downsize or generate rental income

• Longtime residents who may want to develop or sell strategically

Gardner emphasizes, “The shift isn’t just about affordability. It’s about retaining community. These homes allow the people who serve, teach, and support our cities to live here too.”

For sellers, these changes can dramatically increase the value of their land. For buyers, they open up new paths to homeownership. For neighborhoods, they bring fresh energy—while preserving the spirit of place.

WHAT ARE THE CONCERNS?

Naturally, some residents worry about traffic, parking, and infrastructure. Others fear rapid development or disruption of neighborhood character. These are real concerns—and cities are taking them

seriously with implementation timelines, design standards, and public input.

Gardner asks, “How can we encourage companies to move to the Pacific Northwest if housing prices are so high that they simply cant afford to pay employees enough for them to be able to own a home?”

WHAT YOU CAN DO NOW

• Explore your city’s plans – Each municipality is rolling out its own approach. Visit planning websites, attend open houses, and stay informed.

• Talk to a professional – From architects to lenders, planners to Realtors, the right team can help you understand your property’s true potential.

• Start the conversation – With neighbors, with family, with city leaders. This is a shared journey, and your voice matters.

FINAL THOUGHTS

This isn’t about density for density’s sake. It’s about building a future where our children can afford to live nearby. Where aging parents can move into a backyard cottage. Where creative solutions meet real needs.

As Gardner puts it: “The neighborhoods we build today will shape the lives of the next generation.”

House Bill 1110 invites us to rethink the boundaries— of our lots, our zoning, and our assumptions.

It’s about rewriting the neighborhood, yes.

But more than that—it’s about reimagining what community can be.

Group AI Brainstorm

Celebrating Father’s Day

LOCALS SHARE CHERISHED FATHER’S DAY MEMORIES AND TIMELESS ADVICE PASSED DOWN FROM THE DADS WHO RAISED THEM.

ARTICLE BY CAITLIN AGNEW

Tyler Sholdt Founder and Designer of T. Anthony Jewelers

FAVORITE FATHER’S DAY MEMORY?

One of my favorite Father’s Day memories was from a couple years ago when we took a trip down to Santa Barbara and drove the 101 up to Big Sur. We had such a blast exploring, eating great food, and I got to check off a bucket list item - golfing Pebble Beach.

WHAT WORDS OF WISDOM DID YOUR FATHER TEACH YOU?

More than words, I watched my dad and took close notes. He was and still is physically active which I would

like to emulate for my kids. He is massively creative and is always willing to try new things.

FAVORITE ACTIVITY TO DO WITH YOUR KIDS IN KIRKLAND?

We love taking walks down Lake Washington Blvd and through the neighborhoods. We also love the plethora of great food options - Brunch at Le Grande, dinner at Como (which are perfectly located right next door to our jewelry store!).

Tyler Sholdt and his family

Jon Pascal

Kirkland City Council

FAVORITE FATHER’S DAY TRADITION?

When the kids were young, going to the Mariner’s Game on Father’s Day weekend each year.

WHAT WORDS OF WISDOM DID YOUR FATHER TEACH YOU?

“Presence, not presents.” The most meaningful gifts we can give each other are our time, attention, and shared experiences. Vacations, adventures, and meals together—those are the moments that create lasting memories.

FAVORITE ACTIVITY TO DO WITH YOUR KIDS IN KIRKLAND?

Grabbing dinner together at Café Veloce.

Mike Baiocchi

FAVORITE FATHER’S DAY MEMORY?

Business Owner Entrepreneur

Kirkland Resident

Father’s Day 2018 —our second son had just been born and everything felt so real and beautifully simple. We spent the day on our sunny backyard porch, and my wife put together a picnic with all my favorite things.

WHAT WORDS OF WISDOM DID YOUR FATHER TEACH YOU?

My father lived by the motto, ‘no negative vibes allowed,’ and led by example—always selfless, always putting his family first.

FAVORITE ACTIVITY TO DO WITH YOUR KIDS IN KIRKLAND?

Take a walk or bike ride down to the Kirkland and Homeport Marina where we keep our boat. We usually stop at one of the beach parks along the way, then grab some food to-go and have a little picnic on the boat.

Neal Black

Kirkland City Council

FAVORITE FATHER’S DAY TRADITION?

Sunday afternoon at T-Mobile Park (formerly Safeco Field) for a Mariners game

WHAT WORDS OF WISDOM DID YOUR FATHER TEACH YOU?

“Any job worth doing is worth doing right.”

FAVORITE ACTIVITY TO DO WITH YOUR KIDS IN KIRKLAND?

Homerun derby competitions with the boys and wiffle balls and bats at Everest Park. My two sons were both born and raised here in Kirkland.

Jon Pascal and his family

Mike Baiocchi and his family

Neal Black and his family

Chef John E. Thompson

Form Meets Function

ARTICLE BY CAITLIN AGNEW

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LIFE N LIGHT

2Plys is an architectural firm specializing in real estate development solutions, primarily focusing on multifamily housing, urban infill, and spec homes. Since its founding in 2012, the firm has designed and entitled over 600 projects, ranging from custom single-family homes to 50-unit apartment buildings. Founder and principal architect, Adam Crain, launched 2Plys while living in the Washington DC metro area, and in 2018 relocated his family to Kirkland, where the firm continues to grow. Kirkland Lifestyle recently caught up with Adam at the site of one his latest projects.

ARCHITECT ADAM CRAIN SHARES HIS DESIGN PHILOSOPHY AND NEW KIRKLAND PROJECT.

Adam Crain, Owner and Founder of 2Plys Architects

Adam’s architectural philosophy is rooted in collaboration, with each project shaped by the projects vision. “I’ve found that most homeowners already have a style in mind when they call an architect, they just need help organizing the vision. While some architects have a signature aesthetic that defines their work, we prefer a more flexible approach that prioritizes the clients goals,” says Adam.

This mindset is clearly reflected in a recent project in Kirkland. The home was built on a unique lot carved out of the backyards of two adjacent properties the client owned, and there’s a grove of very large cedar trees there that create a special tranquil feeling. “You’re totally removed from the suburban street, and everything quiets down as soon as you pull in. The client wanted to enhance that feeling with a new modern home that tiptoes around the trees and sits amongst them,” says Adam. The house reflects a material palette the homeowner had in mind from the beginning: metal-clad facade, wood accents, and an overall simple form. An extra wide and tall front door and long hallway creates a stunning view from the front door through the rear that is aligned with two trees in a slight ‘V’ shape, drawing the line of sight to the ancient grove beyond the house. A special outdoor feature includes a huge, cantilevered roof over the rear deck to make it usable yearround, with steps down into the yard to experience the trees.

“This was a particularly meaningful project because we developed a genuine friendship with the clients throughout the process,” Adam shares. It’s a reminder of one of his top pieces of advice: “Choose to work with people you truly enjoy. The best projects happen when the team gets along from the beginning — you’re going to have a lot of conversations, so it helps when everyone clicks.” He also emphasizes the value of experience. “It’s essential to work with someone who specializes in the type of project you’re doing. Staying in your lane leads to better results — for everyone involved.”

Adam onsite of his current Kirkland Project.

Renderings of 2Plys Kirkland Project

What’s currently ahead for 2plys? Adam has recently assembled a little over a half-acre in Finn Hill and is working on designing and developing a ‘pocket neighborhood’ of cottages with a mix of one, two, and three bedroom units. “I enjoy designing small homes that use space well without excess and require the cleverness of efficiency, both in the layout of a home and in the use of a site. This probably stems from having worked on so many developments that we were tasked to balance adding units with keeping them livable,” says Adam. Their Finn Hill project puts this philosophy into practice! “We want to create an enjoyable community for downsizing older folks, singles, and families, all around a shared central lawn,” says Adam.

The site holds special meaning for Adam, too. “I bought the property from my neighbor, who spent thousands of hours cultivating her backyard garden. We plan to honor her efforts by making the shared outdoor space a tribute to her care and vision.”

For more information, visit 2plys.com

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

JUNE 5TH

2025 Futurecast Forum

Kirkland Performing Arts Center 9:00 AM

Join the conversation at the 2025 Futurecast Forum—where bold ideas meet real impact. Discover how AI is transforming homeownership and what House Bill 1110 means for your property’s potential. Join top economists, visionary builders, and early adopters leading the next wave of innovation. Optional lunch at Moss Bay. Presented by Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty and partners.

JUNE 6TH

Juanita Friday Market

Juanita Beach Park | 3:00 PM

Kick off your weekend at the Juanita Friday Market! Held weekly at Juanita Beach Park from June through September, enjoy farm-fresh produce, local eats, handcrafted goods, live music, and kid-friendly activities. With over 35 diverse vendors, it’s a fun and welcoming community event for all ages—right on the shores of Lake Washington. Fridays, 3–7 PM.

JUNE 24TH

Pedalheads Bike Day Camps for kids!

Northwest University | 9:00 AM

Nothing beats summer in the PNW! Pedalheads offers fun, skill-building bike camps for kids ages 2–12. With full-day, half-day, and private lesson options, our camps help children grow confidence while staying active outdoors. Join us at Northwest University’s The Caf (June 24–July 11) or The Pavilion (July 14–August 1). $400 for half day and $660 full day. Spots fill fast—register today!