Bumgardner recently completed an office remodel of their second floor loft space in Belltown.
The renovation consisted of lowering all studio walls and partitions to a height no greater than 3’-6” thus allowing light to pour in from the grand paned glass windows that span the entire east and west walls, while also encouraging optimal communication between project teams and overall staff interaction.
Upgrades to the kitchen and restrooms helped to update the 1923 historic Metropolitan Press Co. Building, along with promoting a balanced mix of new and old. Original accents of exposed brick walls and aged vertical grain fir wood floors are juxtaposed by new modern details like petite wire hung accent spots highlighting a 50’ dramatic charcoal gallery wall showcasing the firm’s current project posters and renderings.
A new lounge space overlooks Brasa Restaurant and bustling Belltown below. With low modern furniture, chairs by architect Ralph Rapson, and even a sofa sporting durable woven pet-friendly fabric, the space provides a relaxing area for the staff as well as the perfect spot for the office dog, Oliver, to cuddle up for an afternoon nap.
Seattle Iron & Metals supplied the laser-cut raw steel, floating countertops in restrooms, as well as the recycled 14’ steel beam that supports a new 60” flat screen TV and surround sound speakers.
Installation of a hi-tech sound system flows throughout the entire space, facilitating a rotating variety of the staff’s iTunes mixes to be quietly played throughout the work day. The volume and beats are amplified during the Bum Happy Hour; a 50-year, Friday after-work tradition of camaraderie shared over local beer and air-popped popcorn.
Bumgardner’s improvements didn’t stop at their interior space, but continued out into their “front yard” of Third Avenue. Taking advantage of the recently improved sidewalks and planters along this stretch of Belltown, the Bumgardner staff planted an assortment of herbs including rosemary and lavender, as well as colorful day lilies and flowering perennials. Routinely the staff can be seen outside maintaining their urban garden, which not only takes their “green” philosophy to a whole new level but also provides the opportunity for the firm to interact with their neighbors and enrich their community.