New Identity for 1943 First Avenue South in Seattle, Washington
March 14, 2008, Seattle, Washington
Bohlin Cywinski Jackson recently held an office design charrette for a project at 1943 First Avenue South, in Seattle's rapidly changing SODO neighborhood. The client approached Bohlin Cywinski Jackson for ideas on how to improve the outward appearance of the existing industrial building, which currently houses artist studios and retail space. Working within the limitations of a maintenance and repair budget, the designers were inspired by the character of the working waterfront and urban fabric surrounding this particular building. The bold images of the shipping cranes superimposed on the building's façade help to dissolve the mass of the concrete structure and extend it far beyond the boundaries of the site. Bohlin Cywinski Jackson also designed the interior of a shared entrance and gallery space for the artists, which is highlighted on the façade by a bold orange color. A plywood art wall and track lighting were introduced for the flexible display of artwork in the lobby, as a way to encourage more interaction between the tenants. As a result, the strong graphic quality of the exterior images and simple industrial materials used on the interior spaces reflect Bohlin Cywinski Jackson's belief that powerful opportunities can be found within modest means.
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