Architecture Photo of Merrill Creek

© Moris Moreno

Architecture Photo of Merrill Creek

© Moris Moreno

Architecture Photo of Merrill Creek

© Moris Moreno

Architecture Photo of Merrill Creek

© Moris Moreno

Architecture Photo of Merrill Creek

© Moris Moreno

 

Community Transit Merrill Creek

Transporting Community

Removed from local services in Everett, Washington, Community Transit’s Merrill Creek building goes the extra mile to support its employees by bringing amenities and community to them. Because there are no services within walking distance of the site, the layout and structure of Merrill Creek steps up to provide employees with much needed amenities for them to take advantage of in their down time. There are so many choices to enjoy, in fact, that additional space was added to the structure to allow the inclusion of a fitness area, among other niceties. Splashes of blue and golden rod in lockers, tiling, and light fixtures link the space to Community Transit’s headquarters and compliment their overall branding, reinforcing the sense of community that is inherent between coworkers. Soft corners welcome employees and encourage them to feel at home in their respite from work. Visual cues and references to the surrounding environment are felt through allusions to the namesake Merrill Creek in overhead light fixtures, and the incorporation of natural materials like wood throughout common spaces and walkways that nod to the region’s logging and timber industries. The Great Hall, which cuts through the heart of the building, is wide enough to accommodate multiple artisan booths for exclusive, miniature markets, bazaars, or informational fairs for employees to enjoy since they're unable to attend other markets in the community during work hours or in-between shifts. In all of Merrill Creek’s corridors and corners, thoughtful elements and design intentions celebrate and strengthen the community in and around Community Transit.

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Everett, Washington
  • 2 stories
  • 29,354 sq. ft.
  • Completed in 2023
PROJECT CONTACT

Interiors: Michael Stueve


Interior Story

Investing in the Employee Experience

Architecture Photo of Merrill Creek

© Moris Moreno

Architecture Photo of Merrill Creek

© Moris Moreno

Architecture Photo of Merrill Creek

© Moris Moreno

Architecture Photo of Merrill Creek

© Moris Moreno

Architecture Photo of Merrill Creek

© Moris Moreno

Architecture Photo of Merrill Creek

© Moris Moreno

Architecture Photo of Merrill Creek

© Moris Moreno

Architecture Photo of Merrill Creek

© Moris Moreno

Continuing Community Transit’s tradition of investing in employee wellbeing, Merrill Creek creates a sustainable, hospitality-driven amenity center for transit drivers and administrative employees within its walls. Running from north to south, the Great Hall of the building serves as both the spine of the structure as well as the portal that marks the transition between being on the clock and off the clock for employees. A custom-made light fixture runs along the ceiling, imitating the twists and turns of the creek that the site is named after. Direct sunlight from each side of the building, a skylight, outdoor patio, and various planter boxes throughout the hall connect the building to the local environment. Coupled with health-conscious amenities like a wellness area that offers massages and chiropractic care, and a fitness area that houses workout machines, free weights, and space for yoga, it’s clear that Merrill Creek is dedicated to improving the health and wellness of those who work there. Two stories of relaxing, low-energy comforts and active, engaging amenities allow employees to do everything from read, relax, and rest in the sleep and quiet rooms, to play pool and watch the big game in the more social break and TV rooms between shifts. There are also professional spaces to work or hold conferences in, a locker room for employees to store their personal effects, and a kitchen for cooking up snacks or sharing meals with coworkers. From executive to intern, all Community Transit employees have access to Merrill Creek’s comforts and amenities, making the space an equitable experience for everyone, no matter their rank or length of tenure. With everything from dedicated reading spaces to nursing rooms, the programming and amenities within Merrill Creek go a long way to ensure employees know they are valued and cared for.

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