Challenge

Boyer Children’s Clinic, one of Seattle’s most respected non-profits for over 80 years, provides life-changing care to children with neuromuscular disabilities and developmental delays. By 2014, Boyer had reached full capacity in its longtime Montlake headquarters and desired to open a second location in North Seattle to meet rising demand. The organization’s requirements were specific: a welcoming, accessible environment with a mix of open therapy areas and private offices, easy parking, nearby amenities for families, and a location that didn’t carry top-tier rents. Boyer was also undertaking a capital campaign to help fund build-out costs, so landlord contributions were essential.

Action

Ben Garrett surveyed the North Seattle market from the U District through Northgate. After narrowing the field, two viable options emerged: a traditional office building in Northgate and a unique non-profit-friendly location in Magnuson Park’s Building 11, owned by the City of Seattle Parks & Recreation Department.

While securing a lease with the City presented bureaucratic challenges and required City Council approval, Ben guided Boyer through every step of the process. From strategic positioning to navigating municipal red tape, Ben was the point person across a broad team of stakeholders including Boyer leadership, its architect, project manager and legal counsel to negotiate terms that aligned with the organization’s mission and budget.

Results

Boyer signed a 10-year lease for 6,213 SF at Building 11 in Magnuson Park-delivering a standout outcome that combined value, impact, and long-term flexibility:

  • Significant free rent and landlord-funded tenant improvements from the City of Seattle
  • No operating expense increases over the entire 10-year term
  • Two five-year renewal options at favorable terms
  • Right of first refusal on adjacent expansion space
  • Flexible, customized layout combining therapy spaces and staff functions
  • Beautiful views of Lake Washington and a family-friendly setting within a large urban park
  • Ample free parking and on-site amenities
  • Minimal security deposit and nonprofit-favorable lease language
  • Surrounded by other nonprofits in a collaborative community setting