Adaptive Reuse
University Book Store: 4236 University Way NE
PROPOSED USE: MAKERSPACE, LOCAL MARKET & FOOD HALL
PURPOSE
The goal of this adaptive reuse is to create a vibrant node of activity on The Ave serving students, tourists, and the neighborhood with a multi-level space catered to incubating new businesses, restaurants, and student interaction.
CURRENT STATE
Since 1900, the University Book Store has been a staple on The Ave, providing a needed service and gathering place for students and visitors alike. As it considers a move to new facilities adjacent to its current location, plans are needed for adaptive reuse of the existing historic structure. This proposal for reimaging the space hopes to bring needed services and amenities to The Ave, including flexible food and retail space tailored to small business owners, entertainment offerings, and expanded public restroom access.
PROPOSAL
The goal of the adaptive reuse of the University Book Store is to create a vibrant node of activity on The Ave serving students, tourists, and neighborhood residents with a multi-level space catered to incubating new businesses, restaurants, and student interaction.
- PUBLIC SPACE: Providing space to sit, eat or relax without crowding the sidewalk.
- PEDESTRIAN SCALE: This building is by far the largest on The Ave which interrupts the pattern of small and low store frontages. By breaking up the facade the pedestrian experience will improve and attract more customers to the businesses inside and adjacent.
- COMMUNITY AMENITY: Creating large public bathrooms that are open 24/7.
Rooftop Patio
- Live music
- Scenic views
- Mini golf & Cornhole
- Lounge seating
- Picnic tables
- Fire pit
Makerspace
Food Hall & Market
- 30-100sf stalls
- Street Food
- Small businesses
- Entertainment/music
- Local and unique
- Shared seating
DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
Pedestrian Scale
Breaking up the large mass of the existing building into roughly 40 foot segments of varied materials and frontages make for a more interesting pedestrian experience
Street Activation
Moving portions of the facade away from the street to form outdoor sitting and dining spaces will invite people into the space
Incorporate Natural Elements
Bringing in some natural elements into the space including trees, sunlight and rain make for a unique experience
Circulation
Increase circulation opportunities between “The Ave” and the new Book Store building to the east. Utilize this circulation to also invite people to explore the upper floors of the building
Public Space & Restrooms
Provide restrooms that are open to the public 24/7 along with unique, accessible and fun gathering spaces that encourage people to linger
Business Incubator
Create opportunities for new and small businesses to create and sell products with low upfront investment within a community food hall and market
PROPOSED USE PER FLOOR
This proposal is informed by studying precedent University Districts throughout the country as well as other tested concepts. Analysis of current retail, restaurant, and services inventory on The Ave was conducted to find where there may be needs and opportunities.
The reimagining of the current space proposes a number of uses for the existing structure. On the first floor, a food hall and retail incubation space would cultivate the small businesses found dispersed throughout the Puget Sound region, many of which are run by UW alumni. Some of the additional suggested programming of the building includes a communal kitchen, student-oriented lounge, and vibrant rooftop patio. The main goal of the programming is to incorporate a variety of uses in order to fully maximize the space located centrally on The Ave and by the new Link Light Rail station.
BOOK STORE ROOFTOP
BOOK STORE 3RD FLOOR
BOOK STORE 2ND FLOOR
BOOK STORE BASEMENT
BOOK STORE 1ST FLOOR
