As featured on the cover of Fall 2021 Connections: The Annual Development Issue
Like many Issaquah Highlands neighbors, I watched the development of the corner of 10th Avenue Northeast and Falls Drive with curiosity. Finally, in July 2021, the new Alexan Heartwood apartments received its certificate of occupancy, and by mid-August, the building was 30% leased with ten apartments already occupied.
In August, I had the privilege to meet Susan Carlson, assistant property manager of the Alexan Heartwood and an Issaquah Highlands resident, for a guided tour of this new luxury property. You might have seen some of the amenities, including an outdoor pool overlooking Sunset Walk Pond and a large, covered bike pavilion (for visitors), viewable from outside the building.
Inside the building, the common areas have a chic, contemporary Pacific Northwest vibe. (As a community builder, common areas for social interaction are of particular interest to me.) The Alexan has multiple common areas to work or host a social gathering. A rooftop lounge on the fifth floor has two outdoor seating areas with incredible views of the Issaquah Alps and Lake Sammamish. A couple of floors down, you can hang out in the game room or get cozy next to the outdoor fireplace. Overlooking the lobby is a loft area with booth seating for collaborative work and a private conference room.
There is also a well-equipped fitness facility and indoor bike storage with a repair shop for the active resident. The Alexan is pet-friendly and has an on-site pet spa for keeping your pet fresh after a visit to the Bark Park.
The building is secure with digital access at lobby doors, elevator, and into each residence, as well as underground parking. The Alexan offers package concierge and laundry service. Moving in is easy with a loading dock in the parking garage with direct access to a freight elevator. Electric vehicle charging stations are also available in the parking garage. Self-storage units are available for an additional fee.
The apartments are beautiful, but the views and outdoor deck spaces were my favorite. The outdoor balconies in some of the units felt larger than the living room, though I did not bring a tape measure. After this summer’s heatwave, you will appreciate the apartments have a wall portal for a portable air conditioner hook-up, so you don’t have to rig a window or sliding glass door to keep cool.
The Alexan Heartwood is a luxury property, so it is no surprise the rent prices reflect that description.
When I asked Susan where the new residents hail from, she shared, “many are former Issaquah Highlands homeowners that have taken advantage of the hot real estate market but wanted to remain in the community.” After my tour, I certainly see the appeal.
Christy Garrard is the Highlands Council executive director, and a Dahlia Park resident. Photos by Christy Garrard.
