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University of Washington Roosevelt Commons

The University of Washington Roosevelt Commons facility houses three departments, each with different needs and work environments.Designers on the project looked for a consistent furniture design to meet these various needs. “We wanted design continuity on all floors,” says Fiona Gibson, University of Washington Interior Designer. Gensler Designer Susana Covarrubias concurs, “The university’s goal was to find furniture solutions that are flexible enough to respond to the different needs of many groups. Their selection of KI made that possible.” According to Gibson, the furniture selection process was based on cost, function and a comfortable relationship with KI. “One major factor in selecting KI to supply the furnishings was that the service is consistently excellent,” she says. “It’s a good feeling to specify product and feel confident that any problems will be handled smoothly.”

“”The university’s goal was to find furniture solutions that are flexible enough to respond to the different needs of many groups. With KI that was possible.”

The Roosevelt Commons project involved furnishings for private offices, teaming offices, workstations, filing and conference rooms. It incorporated WireWorks Panel Systems, Genius Walls, Genesis Desking, 700 Series Files and various pedestal and stack seating solutions. “We developed efficient work spaces for each department based on their needs,” says Yukako Horiuchi, Gensler Interior Designer. “KI offers a varied selection of furnishings from lounge chairs to systems furniture,” she added. “It was convenient to be able to put together an entire package from one source for presentation to the client,” explains Horiuchi. “KI provided a great solution for the furniture and workstations and made the process easy.”

From efficient workstations, to functional filing, KI furnishings provide a varied, yet consistent solution for the Roosevelt Commons project. “The KI furniture has a really clean, simple design that responds to all the different needs,” says Covarrubias. “I especially like the aesthetics and the simplicity of the style really works well.” According to Horiuchi, “We’re especially happy with the finishes. The use of Pallas® fabrics makes the furnishings a lot more interesting and more attractive.” Gibson adds, “Each department had it’s needs met and we really like the way the furniture looks.” The end result is a great facility for the University of Washington and one that both Gensler and KI are proud of.