Three months after the Mercer West opened at 77th Ave. and 27th Street, the five-story luxury apartments are more than halfway leased.

“It’s doing extremely well,” said community manager Lisa Vivolo.

The 85-unit complex adjoins the Mercer East, which was built seven years ago. Both projects had plans to be erected at the same time, but the recession and other construction on the Island, stalled the second phase of the project.

Islander James Cassan and his wife own the development company.

Officially opened on February 1, the Mercer West features upgraded amenities like quartz countertops, floor-to-ceiling windows and backlit mirrors in each unit’s bathroom; a heated pool, Jacuzzi and sauna are available. There is also a slightly larger courtyard than its neighboring building, though a skybridge allows tenants to share features in each. Fire pits and a life-size chess set round out the courtyard features.

“This is basically one big community,” she said, explaining that a calendar full of events allowed neighbors to meet and mingle. “[Mercer East] residents can use the amenities over here and vice versa.”

The building is 43 percent occupied and 55 percent leased, said Vivolo. Tenants from both on and off Island, cite schools and the commute between Seattle and the Eastside as top reasons for choosing the Mercer West: “There’s not one specific demographic that’s here. It’s people downsizing from homes; couples that want to be closer to work.”

Vivolo noted that a number of residents have also signed short six-month to year-long leases, as they remodel Island homes.

Below apartment units are two retail spaces, 800 sq. ft. and 1,200 sq. ft. respectively. Tenants haven’t been secured yet, but Vivolo said there are several interested parties.

To learn more about the Mercer West, visit: www.themercerplace.com.