Lake Washington Institute of Technology, East Building, The Commons
Kirkland, WA
Category: 2020 Mixed–Use Developments
Architect: Schreiber Starling Whitehead Architects
Starnet Member:
Great Floors, an ADG Company
Starnet Preferred Vendors:
J+J Flooring, Roppe, Uzin Utz North America, Inc.
Project Strategy
Lake Washington Institute of Technology's East Building Commons is the central gathering space and events center for the entire campus, but at nearly 40 years old it suffered from deteriorated finishes . The primary material in the Commons is exposed concrete, which was originally found on floors, walls, and overhead structure. Due to the large volume of the space these hard surfaces contributed to a very loud environment , which detracted from use of the Commons for group collaboration and study. The funds available for the remodel did not allow for extensive use of acoustic control devices , but it did allow for new flooring, but the extensive use of exposed concrete on the floors, walls and overhead structure provided a unique installation challenge to overcome the loud acoustics. Working with Schreiber Starling Whitehead Architects, the ASG and school administrators specified J+J Kinetex textile composite flooring for the entire 18,000 sf slab-on-grade. Because of high traffic and the presence of food services, Kinetex was initially chosen due to its durability and stain resistance. What made the project uniquely successful was Kinetexs' acoustical performance, which dramatically reduced footfall and ambient noises and helped turn the Commons not just into a desirable place in which to spend time but a supportive environment for group learning.