Of the recent explosion of mixed use and high-density residential development in the Belltown area, Thomas says, "It's finally getting to a critical mass where there are lots of services and enough housing to really make it a neighborhood." Although he points out that the area is still lacking a major grocery store. A nearby amenity Thomas believes will add vale to the Klee's neck of the woods is the upcoming Seattle Art Museum Sculpture Park, which will be situated only a block away.

Thomas has a long history of developing within the urban areas of Seattle, including re-developing the West Queen Anne School into a 49-unit condo project that won award from the National Trust for Historic Preservation and others. Most recently completed was a small condo project in downtown Bellevue, named Mondrian, after the artist. Likewise, the moniker and architecture of Klee Lofts and Suites was inspired by 20th Century artist Paul Klee (pronounced Clay). Thomas says Klee-inspired artworks will be incorporated in the project, including a glass sculpture by Nancy Mee.

Completion of the mid-rise portion of the Klee project is planned for September 2001 with the high-rise portion following in November. Joe Borden is Thomas' project manager, and the project designer is Hewitt Architects of Seattle.