Market: Community Environments

MG2 Named One of the Largest Architecture Firms in Greater Washington D.C.

We’re excited to see MG2 named of the Largest Architecture Firms in Greater Washington D.C. metro-area.

Read more in The Washington Business Journal

MG2 Acquires Portland, Oregon-based Studio C Architecture

Architects Brian Bennett and Jim Walker join MG2 as Principals

SEATTLE, WA—May 15, 2024—Global architecture and design firm MG2 has announced its acquisition of the Portland, Oregon-based firm Studio C Architecture. Studio C is known for its work in multifamily residential design and has specialized in affordable housing. Now backed by the additional resources that a large firm provides, the office will have the capacity and reach to do more than they could have in the past. For Principals Brian Bennett AIA, NCARB, LEED AP and Jim Walker AIA, NCARB, LEED AP, this new alignment is a coming home of sorts, as both principals grew their careers at MG2.

“We are excited to welcome Jim and Brian to MG2,” says Mitch Smith, MG2 CEO and Chairman of the Board. “Their strength in project design, understanding of building systems and experience in complex problem-solving will be invaluable. Their expertise, combined with their passion for affordable housing, is a perfect complement to our firm.”

Jim founded Studio C Architecture in 2007 with the vision that all projects are a reflection of the aspirations of the community in which they are built. Brian joined the firm in 2012 and together they have focused on the residential market with particular expertise in affordable housing. Recent projects include award-winning Deskins Commons in Newberg, OR, Deer Creek Village in Roseburg, OR, and Summit Gardens in Medford, OR, which is now under construction. Their passion for affordable housing stems from their understanding of the profound need and transformative impact that stable housing can bring to families, and both have been active in Habitat for Humanity.

“By joining MG2, we have the opportunity to do more, for more people, and in a shorter period of time,” says Jim. “This has always been my vision and my goal—to serve the community and provide affordable housing to people in need.”

“We are excited to work with a firm—that we know first-hand from past experience—has the design skills, abilities and expertise of MG2 as well as a devotion to engaging with the community and making an impact,” says Brian.

With 30+ years in architecture, Jim’s strength in project and team leadership is grounded in collaboration, diversity of thought, and a genuine curiosity for innovative problem-solving approaches. Jim’s mission of providing quality affordable housing has been a driving force, stemming from a profound recognition of the critical need and the societal issues it impacts. Jim sits on the Board of Directors for Portland’s historic Hollywood Theatre. He earned a Bachelor of Architecture and a Bachelor of Environmental Design from North Dakota State University.

Throughout his career, Brian has worked on a wide array of projects, ranging from small retail tenant improvements to large high-rise residential developments. This breadth of experience has provided him with direct exposure to the unique technical demands of various building structural types and building systems. Brian earned a Bachelor of Architectural Studies from the University of Washington and a Master of Architecture from the University of Oregon.

The Studio C office in Portland will become MG2’s seventh location after Seattle, New York, Washington D.C., Minneapolis, Irvine, and Shanghai.

ABOUT MG2
Guided by our vision to create transformative experiences that foster and elevate healthy communities, MG2 has been delivering award-winning projects and programs for over 50 years. We partner with some of the world’s most recognizable companies and brands to bring exceptional design solutions to life through full architectural, strategic planning, cost management, interior design, brand strategy, and program consulting services. Our seven offices in the U.S. and China—Seattle, Portland, New York, Washington D.C., Minneapolis, Irvine, and Shanghai—integrate building performance and social responsibility into every project. At MG2, our greatest strength lies in our people, our clients, and our commitment to helping them succeed. We are purpose-driven by nature, data-driven by design. www.mg2.com

Meet Our Team

Jim Walker, AIA

Principal

Bringing over two decades of experience in affordable housing and a variety of other project types, Jim’s strength in project and team leadership is grounded in collaboration, diversity of thought, and a genuine curiosity for innovative problem-solving approaches. Jim spearheads the team’s due diligence, land use entitlements initiatives, and sustainable design methodology. His passion for affordable housing stems from his understanding of the profound need and transformative impact that stable housing can bring to families.

Meet Our Team

Brian Bennett, AIA

Principal

Throughout his career, Brian has worked on a wide array of projects, ranging from small retail tenant improvements to large high-rise residential developments. This breadth of experience has provided him with direct exposure to the unique technical demands of various building structural types and building systems. His commitment to the mission of providing quality affordable housing has been a driving force, stemming from a profound recognition of the critical need and the societal issues it impacts. For Brian, engaging in affordable housing work represents an opportunity to leverage his skills and expertise to serve others and enhance the quality of communities for all.

Winslow

In the vibrant North Park neighborhood of San Diego, Winslow Apartments is a 380-unit, luxury apartment development designed with a nod to the city’s decades-old social club scene.

The complex boasts 8,600 square feet of amenity space including a fireside lounge—a wraparound conversation area with a 360-degree circular fireplace and a stunning custom chandelier made from hundreds of metal beads.

The expansive rooftop lounge is flooded with daylight and views of the pool deck and the city beyond. MG2 designers partnered with lighting and landscaping specialists to achieve an exquisite indoor-outdoor and day-to-night experience. The space also includes foosball and pool tables as well as high top and community tables for small and large gatherings.

A bright and airy fitness center brings the outdoors in with double-height windows. Orange ceiling fans add a retro classic look to the space.

MG2 combined Winslow Apartments sweeping views with amenity spaces for an unparalleled residential experience.

  • Project Details

  • Location San Diego, CA
  • Client Quarterra
  • Market Sectors
  • Size 8,600 sqft Unit Space; 379 units; 12,000 sqft Amenity Spaces
  • Services

Woods Restaurant

Woods Restaurant on Mackinac Island has been a beloved destination for guests and visitors for many years. The Tudor mansion was originally constructed in 1905 by the Cudahy family as an elaborate playhouse however, changing hands throughout the years brought various operations, from a recreation space, to a church, and to the currently  treasured Bavarian themed restaurant.

To keep up with changing tastes and trends while honoring its strong legacy, the restaurant recently partnered with MG2 to renovate and refresh its interiors while maintaining the classic experience visitors know and love.

The project aimed to create a cohesive environment that blended old and new elements, highlighting the historic charm of the restaurant while updating it to meet modern standards and breathe new life into previously underutilized areas. To achieve these goals, the renovation team touched nearly every space within the restaurant, from Bobby’s Bar to The Patio at Woods.

A Brand-New Sanctuary

The entry lobby underwent a meaningful transformation, featuring new furnishings, a built-in bench, and a colored glass wall that perfectly complements the exterior surroundings and stained-glass windows of the main dining room. These elements create a unique and brand-new sanctuary that adds to the restaurant’s historic charm and character.

Personal Touches and Old-World Charm

Named after an award-winning show dog, Bobby’s Bar was refreshed and expanded, providing additional seating and a rejuvenated atmosphere for guests. Complimenting the photographs, awards, and memorabilia from Bobby’s life, which provide a touch of personalization to the space, the deep green tones of the area’s surrounding foliage have been artfully reimagined into a dimensional tile bar front. The original brass rails were expertly reworked into suspended brass liquor and glass storage, adding to an atmosphere steeped with vintage charisma.

Refreshed, Accessible Elegance

In the Great Hall, the fixtures, furnishings, and equipment were rejuvenated, while the restaurant’s “Bavarian hunting lodge” charm and personality were intricately maintained with historic patterned wallcovering and playful woodland animal details. The new additions create a luxurious atmosphere that complements the space’s high-vaulted ceilings and adds to the overall elegance of the dining experience.

To make the space more accessible, the restrooms were reconfigured and expanded to include ADA stalls, ensuring all guests can enjoy a dining experience at Woods without limitations.

Transformative New Dining Experiences

With its ample glass windows, The Chalet received a stunning addition in the form of a see-through two-sided fireplace that connects the interior dining experience to the outdoor deck extension and seamlessly blends both environments. In addition, the mix-and-match decor vignettes featuring taxidermy animal heads and vintage trophies add a unique touch that captures the room’s picturesque surroundings.

The Patio was expanded, and a new covered wood and glass dining pavilion was added to blend visually with the existing structure. The inviting fireplace dining table in the center of the pavilion creates a unique and cozy dining experience.

The Trophy Hall, previously an underused area, was transformed into a new dining area. The installation of built-in booths and millwork with metal mesh screens, as well as uplighting, helped add a warm ambiance and create a welcoming environment that offers guests prime views of the outdoor deck beyond.

A Harmonious Renovation

Throughout the renovation, the design team leveraged new or refinished interior fixtures, furnishings, and equipment that seamlessly blended with the restaurant’s rustic charm and modern elegance.

The result is a revitalized and harmonious environment that pays tribute to Woods storied past while catering to contemporary standards. The perfect blend of old and new elements produces an inviting, immersive, and refined atmosphere, sure to impress and delight guests and visitors to Mackinac Island for decades.

Food Hall & Entertainment

Designed to be a curated culinary and social gathering brand—MG2 programmed and designed this 40,000 SF experience to include a variety of food, beverage, and entertainment options. The spaces serves as a hub for the community and surrounding neighborhoods with range of fast casual to full-service dining and drinking. This flexible market and outdoor eat/play zone anchor the ground floor while the second floor extends the experience with a national entertainment venue, zone for live music, and outdoor terrace bar and dining. Pillars of local, tech integration and sustainability were used to ground this flexible venue.

ENR 2024 Top 500 Design Firms: Artificial Intelligence Ramps Up

Commentary from the Top 500 Design Firms in 2024 reveals a shift in the use of artificial intelligence to complement design services. Last year, AI was the exception more than the rule, but this year more design professionals aim to integrate tech into operations. 

MG2 CEO and Chairman Mitch Smith summed up the proliferation of AI use among design firms as “exciting,” but says the technology is “daunting to comprehend.”

Read more in Engineering News-Record

Perspectives

Our Inaugural Sustainability Impact Report

April 2024 / By Our Inaugural Sustainability Impact Report

MG2 is proud to share our inaugural Sustainability Impact Report for 2023. This annual report will measure our progress year-over-year towards meeting the AIA 2030 Commitment to reach towards carbon neutrality by 2030. Taking this step helps us reach our goal of transparency and accountability to our clients, our industry, and the communities where we live and work. This report demonstrates our progress in design and project work and also calculates our corporate carbon emissions.  

While sustainability has long been part of the MG2 ethos, we formalized our position in 2020 by joining the AIA 2030 Commitment and publishing our first Sustainability Action Plan. With this 2023 Sustainability Impact Report, we’ve taken the opportunity to refine our plan and take advantage of new tools and processes. As part of that plan, we have established four goals as a firm:

Goal 1:

Operating Energy

With a focus on building performance, we aim to reduce the amount of energy needed to operate buildings. In new construction, this involves building heating and cooling, lighting, plug loads, etc. For retail tenant improvements (TI), we primarily focus on the lighting power density which calculates the light output per square foot. 

Goal 2:

Embodied Carbon

This goal represents all the building materials required for new construction or retail TI. Each material has an associated Global Warming Potential (GWP) number which considers the material’s extraction from the earth, manufacturing process, transportation to the building site, and building construction, called “cradle to gate.” We calculate the material quantities in the building (typically from a Revit model) and apply a GWP number to those quantities to determine the metric tons of CO2 a building uses. Reducing this number requires higher efficiencies in our designs and our materials.

Goal 3:

Material Sourcing

Many material manufacturers provide Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for their products. This goal emphasizes the importance of collecting EPDs when we procure or specify materials. In addition to the AIA 2030 Commitment, we are proud signatories of the AIA Materials Pledge. Our job as designers is to bring a deeper awareness of the material makeup and offer our clients “good, better, and best” choices when selecting materials.

Goal 4:

Water Conservation

Water is one of our most precious resources. We calculate and track water usage for irrigation as well as indoor water use. No matter where you live, water is becoming a scarce resource, and as designers we are responsible for implementing innovative solutions. 

You can’t improve what you don’t measure, and as a firm we always challenge ourselves to do better. We are constantly tracking data for the above goals during each design phase of a project, from Concept Development through Construction Documentation. Each design team is responsible for collecting and evaluating data during the design process and looking for ways to improve efficiencies.

MG2 invites you to check out our 2023 Sustainability Impact Report and check back each year to see our progress. Enter your name and contact information below to gain access, then click on the report to read full-screen.

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Costco Headquarters Campus Addition is Seattle DJC’s Project of the Week

Costco Headquarters Campus Addition was the Seattle Daily Journal of Commerce’s Project of the Week.

“Sustainability was a priority throughout the design of the new building. Sustainable elements include triple-glazing and a dedicated outdoor air system that efficiently recovers energy and reduces heating demands by using interior building heat to warm up outside air, reducing fossil fuel usage.”

Read more at The Daily Journal of Commerce

The Jockey Club

Located across the street from Grand Hotel, The Jockey Club has become a favorite amongst hotel guests, island visitors and locals of Mackinac Island. Originally built as a Snack Bar to cater The Jewel Golf Course, The Jockey Club features the only wood-fire grill on Mackinac Island and welcomes visitors to enjoy signature cocktails, and mouth-watering dishes incorporating local ingredients, all while overlooking the 9th hole of The Jewel Golf Course.

Seeking to undertake a comprehensive rehabilitation and expansion of the restaurant’s popular outdoor dining areas, The Jockey Club partnered with MG2 to enhance the dining experience for guests while preserving the historic charm of the building.

Designing a Complimentary Solution

The renovation included the replacement of weathered exterior dining tents with a striking new permeant structure. Designed to be a visual complement to the memorable architecture of the existing building, the pavilion features clean lines and simple but elegant composition. With permanently covered dining that can be enjoyed throughout the season, The Jockey Club has been enhanced with an inviting and comfortable dining experience for guests to enjoy.

Keeping Legacy Local

Designers paid close attention to the furniture, fixtures, and equipment (FF&E) used in the restoration, sourcing local, vintage FF&E from around Mackinac Island to create a unified and community-centric space that could accommodate more guests. The result is a warm and inviting dining area, enshrouded in island history, that perfectly complements the legacy architecture of the building and the nearby, Grand Hotel.

Uncompromised Accessibility

Finally, to ensure The Jockey Club is fully accessible to all visitors, the team incorporated ADA accessibility features into its environment. This included ramps and lifts to enable easy access to the clubhouse and the addition of two exterior-accessible restrooms that meet ADA requirements.

With its stunning new design elements and ADA upgrades, The Jockey Club’s revitalization has enhanced this iconic destination’s environment while preserving its original building’s historic charm, making it a must-visit experience for locals and tourists alike.

Lobby Renovations

Located in Washington Heights, the renovation of three residential lobbies focused on providing improved accessibility and updated finishes to better serve current and future tenants. MG2 worked to create a recognizable design for the client to help set a consistent standard across their many properties. Pulling inspiration from Art Deco style and the original detailing of the pre-war building, the design pairs custom ironwork and natural marble floors with wood accents and a light color palette.

  • Project Details

  • Location Multiple Locations in NYC, NY
  • Client Royal Charter Properties
  • Market Sectors
  • Size 2,500 SF
  • Services

MG2 Listed in BD+C’s Top 90 Shopping Mall, Big Box Store, and Strip Center Architecture Firms for 2023

We’re excited to be listed in BD+C’s Top 90 Shopping Mall, Big Box Store, and Strip Center Architecture Firms for 2023.

Read more in Building Design + Construction

MG2 Listed in BD+C’s Top 90 Restaurant Architecture Firms for 2023

We’re excited to be listed in BD+C’s Top 90 Restaurant Architecture Firms for 2023.

Read more in Building Design + Construction

Overlake Square Apartments

This eight-story podium apartment building is located in the heart of Redmond’s Overlake neighborhood and is within walking distance of the new light rail station. The design team’s goal was to add to the richness of the community while positively impacting the nearby businesses and contribute to the area’s vibrant cultural diversity. The design emphasizes sustainability, community impact, and efficient design.

  • Project Details

  • Location Redmond, WA
  • Client Carmel Partners
  • Market Sectors ,
  • Size 715,000 SF; 525,000 SF residential; 574 units
  • Services

6 Corners Lofts Gears Up For February Move-Ins In Portage Park

“Scheduled to open for initial move-ins on February 1, the 6 Corners Lofts project at 4714 W Irving Park Road in Portage Park marks a significant redevelopment of the former Sears store.”

We’re excited to see 6 Corners Lofts and now open to residents. Located in Chicago, this complex features “50,000 square feet of retail space, with Target as the primary tenant, above which are 206 apartment units.”

Read more at the Chicago YIMBY

‘Elevating Voices’ Exhibit Features Black Northwest Artists

Bellevue joins partners to present Black History Month exhibit at City Hall

In celebration of Black History Month, the City of Bellevue, in partnership with Seattle architecture firm MG2 and Onyx Fine Arts Collective, is presenting the exhibit “Elevating Voices,” featuring the work of 17 Pacific Northwest Black artists.

Read more in Bellevue’s City News

Paso Robles

The Landing at Paso Robles is a unique location unifying various activities. From wineries and breweries to warehouse maker spaces, a blurred indoor-outdoor environment leverages the destination’s perfect climate to foster connections in a casual setting.

With elements influenced by the adjacent airport in wine country, Paso Robles is designed to offer a unique motif that fuses modern aesthetics with a rich local legacy. These themes can be found throughout the different building types, from grand sliding barn doors that reveal flattering glass walls to sweeping laminated timber beams that soar overhead.

A closer look at the site reveals the presence of existing oak trees, adding a natural charm and contributing to the spatial qualities with dappled light. To further enhance the story, a farm-to-table grape-growing demonstration garden was included to embrace the agricultural essence of the region.

The Landing at Paso Robles will boast diverse offerings, including resort hotels for a luxurious stay, a vibrant market hall, well-equipped office spaces, and retail establishments. Each detail weaves together seamlessly to create an enticing and memorable destination.

The Best Architects in Seattle, Washington

We’re excited to be named one of The Best Architects in Seattle, Washington by Home Builder Digest.

Read more in Home Builder Digest

Top 120 Hotel Architecture Firms for 2023

We’re excited to be listed in BD+C’s Top 120 Hotel Architecture Firms for 2023.

Read more in Building Design + Construction

1661 Olive Way

Located in Seattle’s premier neighborhood of Capitol Hill, 1661 Olive Way promises to elevate the community’s unique character. The neighborhood’s restaurants, bars, small businesses, and civic history create a vibrant pedestrian experience that this new mixed-use development will enhance. The resulting mixed-use residential building will comprise retail on the ground floor, 170 residential units above, and amenity areas, including exercise, resident lounge, and rooftop.

1661 Olive Way Big photo

  • Project Details

  • Location Seattle, WA
  • Client Continental Properties, LLC
  • Market Sectors ,
  • Size 192,000 Total SF; 8,000 SF Amenity Space; 2,700 SF Commercial; 173 Units; 94 Parking Stalls
  • Services

Sears Six Corners Takes 28th Spot In Year-End Countdown

Snatching the 28th spot in our year-end countdown is the redevelopment of the former Sears store at 4712 W Irving Park Road in Portage Park. Sitting on the six-corner intersection with N Cicero Avenue and N Milwaukee Avenue, the project adds density to the intersection anchored by Clarendale Six Corners which took the 31st spot in our 2021 countdown. Finishing touches are currently being added by developer and general contractor Novak Construction.

Read more at the Chicago YIMBY

First Light

First Light penthouse

Clocking in at 47 stories, First Light is a multi-faceted mixed-use project in downtown Seattle. Currently, under development at the corner of 3rd and Virginia, the design boasts street-level retail—including three restaurants and a coffee shop—topped with six floors of office space, and 38 floors of residential condominiums.

MG2 has partnered with Vancouver-based designer James KM Cheng to make the vision for First Light a reality while preserving affordability for professionals working and living in the city. The design features an enclosed greenhouse-like rooftop garden with panoramic views, a swimming pool, and a lounge area. Gracing the exterior of floors two through seven, passers-by will encounter a massive art installation by local artist James Holden. Once complete, this tower will bring beauty and functionality to the city’s ever-growing downtown corridor.

(c) Bobby Erdt
(c) Bobby Erdt
First Light tower

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