I am pleased by your interest in the innovative and challenging Commercial Tenant Improvement project collaboratively undertaken by Andrasta Design and Spincycle Yarns starting on July 20, 2022.

This project, meticulously planned and designed over eighteen months, is currently progressing through the permitting stage, with construction set to commence in late summer of this year.

Several unique attributes set this project apart, leading me to outline its key highlights:

• The building, an aged masonry structure with just three exterior walls, showcases a roof structure crafted using bridge trusses.
• Previous modifications divided the building into three separate units, each with its own address. The ongoing project aims to unite these areas into a cohesive space tailored to the client’s needs.
• This innovative design encompasses various occupancy types within a single structure, including mercantile, business, storage, and F-1 manufacturing.
• Given the building’s neglected history, a thorough retrofit is imperative to ensure compliance with current building codes, including essential seismic upgrades.
• The retrofit incorporates seismic enhancements and the incorporation of sustainable energy solutions like a comprehensive rooftop solar array.
• Transforming an underutilized parking garage, plagued by lead paint and leaks, into a premier yarn manufacturing facility is a key aspect of the initiative.
• The clients have enlisted a lean manufacturer to optimize the facility’s design and layout, maximizing every inch of space.
• Our goal is to fund the project utilizing the C-PACER program, positioning us as the first local designer and builder in Whatcom County to leverage this remarkable program.
• The overarching design concept captures the vibrancy and creativity synonymous with Spincycle Yarns while honoring the art deco and craftsman styles of the 1920s that the building was originally styled after

I will be regularly creating short, easy to digest articles revealing how the sausage has been made on this large scale retrofit for some of the best clients a design firm could ask for.

Each article will delve into the intricate processes, covering everything from the initial conceptualization to the finishing touches. Readers will get an exclusive behind-the-scenes glimpse into the craftsmanship and innovation at play. By featuring interviews with essential team members, providing in-depth analyses of design decisions, and sharing insights into challenges met and conquered, these articles aim to highlight the commitment and skill required to transform spaces.

Whether you’re a design enthusiast, a professional in the field, or simply curious about the world of large-scale retrofits, these articles will provide valuable knowledge and inspiration. Stay tuned for a journey into the heart of design innovation and excellence.