design is
transformational
Design Firm: SABArchitects & Nell Studio
Project Name/Client: Turner Construction Company
Project Location: Seattle, WA
Products: 24square Tile, Weave Accent Tile, Man Made Stria Tile, Dessau, Felted
What is Design?
Design is a strategic tool which has the power to positively transform any and all environments.
How is Design best illustrated through the project?
The rigorous heavy-timber structural grid and open exposed floor structure created a simple strong overall organizing starting point. By utilizing different design elements such as wood clad walls, different carpeting for different functional zones, and maintaining related cohesiveness in color choice SABA and Nell Studio were able to unify the space but differentiate function based on materials. New materials and furniture in the reception area and rooftop lunchroom have created an entirely fresh approach to formerly worn and cramped spaces.
Biggest Design Challenge?
By remaining in their current space and by keeping much of their existing workstations a new design feel needed to be created while still incorporating much of the existing context. This condition put particular emphasis on new materials. Shaw carpets played a huge role in providing sophisticated color and material choices that met durability, cost and LEED requirements.
What made it Innovative or Unique?
The client is a general contractor and is thus familiar with space planning, design and construction. By acting as their own contractor a uniquely close, efficient and mutually beneficial client/architect relationship resulted.
How did Design make a difference?
The design brought a renewed fresh feel to a strong, but tired space. Moving kitchen functions from small isolated break areas on multiple floors to the large rooftop penthouse allowed for more efficient use of space and made a huge difference in people’s interactions. The formerly underutilized rooftop space is now a mecca that has helped unify the company by breaking down barriers between people and departments who reside on different floors.
