Built on a sloping site with a significant grade change of nearly twenty-five feet from the northeast to the southwest, the design maximized this topographical feature by strategically stacking the shops and creating an inviting interior plaza. This innovative solution provided on-grade access to all four shops and allowed for the infusion of natural light throughout the facility.

‍

At the heart of the building, a remarkable gallery and gathering space serves as the focal point, with large roll-up doors at each end that seamlessly connect to both the internal plaza and the main entry. The integration of these flexible openings enhances the building's versatility while fostering a vibrant atmosphere. One of the main design elements was placing emphasis on repurposing materials to minimize waste and imbue the center with an authentic design. The team was able to salvage wood from the existing building and utilized leftover timber from nearby sites and structures. By integrating the repurposed timber into the hallways and staircases, the design connects with the center's lumber refabrication purpose and wood-related artwork. The team’s commitment to sustainability led the project to achieve LEED certification.

‍

JMC’s team was entrusted with this project through a Design-Bid-Build process. Collaborating closely with the architect and owner, our team brought the envisioned building to life. Given the project's location in Capitol Hill, the team encountered several logistical challenges that demanded additional planning and coordination. The team successfully engaged proactively with neighbors, the City of Seattle, and local businesses to mitigate potential disruptions and minimized the project's impact on the surrounding community.