What do we do and why do we do it?  There are some businesses that understand their mission, are laser-focused and forge ahead.  We’ve been a bit more malleable.  Our business has morphed many times throughout the years in response to trends in style and creativity.  Along the way, we have completed some fantastic projects.  Always learning, we’ve also taken projects we probably shouldn’t have, because they were interesting, and because we wanted to work with a specific client.  What a way to run a business- and run it has.

Despite our “running” a bit haphazardly for many years, we have survived (because of the talent of the founder and the skill of our great staff).  2016 was our best year to date; 2017 is 1/6 completed.  We are very much on track, and constantly looking to drill down on the first question of this paragraph. “What do we do and why do we do it?” Focusing on the “why and what” will be essential as we charge ahead to meet future challenges and continue our success.

James (aka “Jay”) is Glassworks’ professor in residence.  He knows about the composition of glass, compatibility and glass nuances.  Ask Jay about the melting or annealing points of glass or other aspects of glass and he will gladly share his knowledge in a very thorough and understandable manner.  He can take a production problem, break it into segments and methodically deal with each issue successfully.

He has many talents in addition to his skilled polishing and cold working abilities.  Jay has worked with glass since 1989 and is well versed in blown, cast and kiln formed glass. As a glass artist, his work has been featured nationally and internationally. He can weld, solve challenging installation situations and identify building maintenance priorities – he is truly a “Jack-of-all-trades”.  We are very fortunate to have him as a key Glassworks team member.

Springs is here- or just around the corner, so it’s time to renew, refresh and dust off some recurrent ideas and actions.   I borrowed an idea from someone so long ago I can’t remember who it was but that’s ok, because it’s a good thing and if you’d like to borrow the idea from me, that’s just fine with me.   We give back to the community in a varied and systematic way.  When we receive a referral from a past client, at the completion of the project, we make a donation in the referral’s name to a non-profit agency of their choice.   Throughout the years we’ve donated to over twenty-five organizations, some more than once.  They’ve represented a spectrum of organizations – from Treehouse for Kids to our most recent, Architects without Borders – Seattle, a Jim Seeks (Seeks Design Assoc.) request.

View the full list of our Good Works Recipients here.

It’s the time to plant new ideas, think of new projects, help friends and give non-profit agencies a boost.  We’re looking forward to growing our donation list ten-fold this year.

Won’t you join me and borrow this idea?!

Tish Oye
Glassworks, Inc. Principal

Glassworks featured again on HGTV/DIY Networks’ Bath Crashers

Glassworks has been featured again in the fourth season of the popular reality show Bath Crashers on HGTV/DIY Networks. This season’s episode, titled “Seattle Espresso Suite”, brings something new to a local bathroom: a vertical partition of slumped glass. Due to the extremely fast-paced nature of the show, the designers specified the glass with us before assessing the accessibility of the room being remodeled, which resulted in the host of the show, Matt Meunster, needing to hire a lift to bring our glass through a second story window! You can catch this thrilling episode on DIY network at the following dates and times:

  • March 21, 2012 @ 12:30 PM e/p
  • March 27, 2012 @ 7:00 PM e/p
  • April 03, 2012 @ 10:30 PM & 1:30 AM e/p
  • April 15, 2012 @11:30 AM e/p
  • or WATCH IT NOW ONLINE

More info and updates on air dates, please visit the DIY Network website.

Look for our Full Page Ad in LUXE Magazine in April

Our friends at the Seattle edition of LUXE Magazine are publishing the Spring 2012 issue in April. We have a full page ad in this issue featuring a large outdoor fused-glass table designed by Karen Skadan Design. You can learn more about this project in our last Design Partner Feature from Winter 2012. Make sure you get your spring issue of LUXE Magazine’s Seattle Edition!

More info and back issues at luxesource.com.

Office Space Available

Office Space Available - Floor Plan

Click to View

We have two office spaces available: one @ 325 Sq. Ft. ($750/mn) and one @ 200 Sq. Ft. ($350/mn). Can be rented separately or together ($1,000/ mn). Located on the walk-in level of our building. Use of a conference room and congenial atmosphere included. Off-street parking. Carpeted and ready to move in. Ideal for design / architectural firm.

Interested in taking a walkthrough?
Please call us at (206) 441-4268, or email us.

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”1358″ img_size=”full”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″ el_class=”new-left-side”][vc_column_text]Happy Holidays to all the creative designers, fantastic clients and all who have inspired us throughout the year.   We are thankful for the many opportunities you have given us.  Here’s to continued collaboration with you and with the many associates we have yet to meet…and for a fun-filled, healthy and prosperous 2012.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″ el_class=”new-right-side”][vc_column_text]Recent Glassworks News and Events

Looking at Glass Blog

Glassworks Downtown Seattle Penthouse glass was featured on the “Looking at Glass” blog written by interior designer Patricia Linthicum.

Battle of the Chefs

Glassworks was honored to have been a part of the “Battle of the Chefs” Luxe Magazine event.  To view photographs and for more info on this event visit the official BOTC facebook page.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_video link=”https://youtu.be/dpRTsWSBTIM” align=”center”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″ el_class=”new-left-side”][vc_column_text]Hosted group from Weaver Architects[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″ el_class=”new-right-side”][vc_column_text]We hosted an early evening gathering with Weaver Architects complete with wine, fabulous cheese and an informal Q&A about our glass and ourselves. This was a great way to get to know our new industry partner and we had a great time!  For anyone wanting to learn more, give us a call and we’ll schedule an appointment to chat.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Latest News” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:55px|text_align:center|color:%23000000|line_height:60px” google_fonts=”font_family:Lora%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal” el_class=”latest-news-new-page”][vc_row_inner el_class=”new-post-carousel”][vc_column_inner][na_posts_carousel height=”277px” excerpt=”0″ comment=”none” catg=”none” dot=”false” autoplay=”false” slide_visible=”2″ txtsize=”24px” txtclr=”#000000″ dateclr=”#686868″ descclr=”#888888″ settings=”size:10|order_by:date|order:ASC|post_type:post|categories:20″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_class=”get-in-touch-block”][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Have a Vision for your Unique Space? ” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:55px|text_align:center|color:%23000000|line_height:60px” google_fonts=”font_family:Lora%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal”][vc_custom_heading text=”Get In Touch” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:55px|text_align:center|color:%23597b7c|line_height:60px” google_fonts=”font_family:Lora%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal” el_class=”get-in-touch-link” link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fglassworksinc.com%2Fcontact-us%2F|||”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

1" thick Infinity Obsidian Glass Vanity - VS-100

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″ el_class=”new-left-side”][vc_column_text]Glassworks, Inc. has been in the business of one of a kind, functional glass creations for over 40 years. We are really proud of our custom work and value the relationships we have built with architects, designers, and home & business owners across the United States.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″ el_class=”new-right-side”][vc_column_text]


DIY Network "Bath Crashers" in Seattle

A few months ago, two of our design partners, Urban Development Group (UDG) and MAK Interior Design, contacted us with an opportunity to participate in a HGTV / DIY Network “Bath Crashers” episode filmed here in Seattle. We learned very quickly that “reality” shows like this operate in a very narrow framework with short timelines, requiring much of the planning to occur before we even knew who the “target” was. This project was easily one of the more challenging projects of the season. The episode was first aired on July 4, 2011 and continues to be played in reruns. This episode is titled Teak Tub Retreat.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″ el_class=”new-left-side”][vc_column_text]We had the pleasure of working closely with Carl Baker from UDG and Mariko Kydd from MAK at the beginning of 2010, on the design of the West facing penthouse in the Escala Building on 4th and Virginia. Since we were solely focused on the Bath Crashers Seattle - The Targetglass vanity top for this project, we have asked Mariko to help us tell the whole story.

Glassworks: How did the HGTV opportunity come about? How did you get involved?[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″ el_class=”new-right-side”][vc_column_text]Glassworks: Who was in charge of each aspect of the design and construction? How many companies were involved?

Mariko:I was involved with the design and Carl was in charge of the construction. I was the one that chose all the vendors and got them on-board. Here is a list of many of the companies that were involved:

Matt Meunster - Bath Crashers Seattle

Matt Meunster, host of DIY Network’s “Bath Crashers”

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_class=”new-image-block”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”1417″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” onclick=”link_image”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”1418″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” onclick=”link_image”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″ el_class=”new-left-side”][vc_column_text]“I love how Glassworks’ art glass is custom and
I had the flexibility to choose any color and design I wanted.”

~ Mariko Kydd of MAK Design

Glassworks: Wow! That is an impressive list. We know that we had to move quickly to get our vanity top done in time. How much time did you have to complete the entire project?

Bath Crashers Seattle - Robbin SpeaksMariko: We saw the space mid February, and we had until end of March to finish the project, giving Carl one week from starting the demo to completing the finished bathroom.

Glassworks: We were very impressed with the level of organization required to accomplish this task with so many unknowns. What is the overarching theme or concept behind the design?

Mariko: I would say the Teak wood that carries from the floor, and travels up the tub deck, and onto the wall. This is how the episode got its title.

Glassworks: Were there any specific design challenges that were unique to this project? How did you overcome these challenges?[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″ el_class=”new-right-side”][vc_column_text]Bath Crashers Seattle - "Teak Tub Retreat"Mariko: Many of the design challenges were compounded by short notice with the space, and not having all the details of construction until filming began. For example, we did not know exactly where the beam/column was landing, we had to make several adjustments once they opened up the walls, and there were issues with the plumbing and lighting too.

Glassworks: Why did you choose to include Glassworks’ art glass? How did our glass accomplish your design goals?

Mariko: I love how Glassworks’ art glass is custom and I had the flexibility to choose any color and design I wanted. Glassworks’ glass accomplished my design goals by allowing me to choose the color and style, and size that I desired. Thank you for doing such a great job! It’s always a wonderful experience working with Glassworks.

Glassworks: And thank you Mariko for including us in your fantastic design! We learned a lot and we look forward to working with you again soon.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″ el_class=”new-left-side”][vc_column_text]Click here for more info on this episode and air dates:
See Glassworks, Inc. on HGTV / DIY Network "Bath Crashers"

~ ~ ~ ~

More info on MAK Design:
Mariko Kydd of MAK DesignMariko Kydd at MAK Design is passionate about interior design and strives to create timeless and harmonious interiors for a wide range of clients. While working closely with you, MAK Design will evaluate your needs and interpret your requirements in order to create your perfect space. I love the quote by Ivan Chermayeff: “Design is directed for human beings. To design is to solve human problems by identifying them and executing the best solution. ” What are some of your most notable projects to date? I would say the Escala Penthouse, Bath Crashers, “Suite” Restaurant in Bellevue Place.

More info: www.interiormakdesign.com[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″ el_class=”new-right-side”][vc_column_text]More info on Urban Development Group:
Urban Development Group, Inc.Where art, nature, functionality, and construction coexist. Urban Development Group works with a network of interior designers, architects, and construction contractors. We understand that the ideal solution deserves the freedom of choice. This network provides choices for design, architect and construction venues allowing the right fit and comfort for our clients while emphasizing the largest value received for project costs. Our network has an emphasis on small/medium size business relationships; we believe that the cost structure associated with that range of business model provides the expertise and more important the end value required in today’s economic times. Our integrated work environment allows our partnered companies to expand on traditional internal expertise by partnering within the network.

More info: www.urbandevelopmentgroupinc.com[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Latest News” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:55px|text_align:center|color:%23000000|line_height:60px” google_fonts=”font_family:Lora%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal” el_class=”latest-news-new-page”][vc_row_inner el_class=”new-post-carousel”][vc_column_inner][na_posts_carousel height=”277px” excerpt=”0″ comment=”none” catg=”none” dot=”false” autoplay=”false” slide_visible=”2″ txtsize=”24px” txtclr=”#000000″ dateclr=”#686868″ descclr=”#888888″ settings=”size:10|order_by:date|order:ASC|post_type:post|categories:20″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_class=”get-in-touch-block”][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Have a Vision for your Unique Space? ” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:55px|text_align:center|color:%23000000|line_height:60px” google_fonts=”font_family:Lora%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal”][vc_custom_heading text=”Get In Touch” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:55px|text_align:center|color:%23597b7c|line_height:60px” google_fonts=”font_family:Lora%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal” el_class=”get-in-touch-link” link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fglassworksinc.com%2Fcontact-us%2F|||”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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Homeowners Glen and Deb Bruel invite you to visit their new ‘Natural Balance House’ – expected to be the first LEED Platinum home on San Juan Island featuring Architectural Art Glass by Glassworks, Inc.

Architectural Art Glass by Glassworks, Inc. includes:

  • Cast Glass Countertop
  • Recycled Glass Wine Room Door
  • Fuzed Glass Light Fixture

Big thanks to Ravenhill Construction who included us in this project.

WHEN: Every Saturday in May, from 11am to 4pm.

WHO: Tours will be led by the building professionals and designers involved in the project. Homeowners Glen and Deb Bruels will also be on hand. In addition, each Saturday will feature a special presentation by a professional involved with the project:

  • SATURDAY, MAY 7: “Getting to LEED Platinum”
    with Ravenhill Construction (presentation at noon)
  • SATURDAY, MAY 14: “Art from Around the World”
    with the homeowners and regional artists Lori Blessing and
    Andy Nichols (presentations at noon and 2 p.m.)
  • SATURDAY, MAY 21: “Water-Wise Shoreline Development”
    with landscaper Steve Schramm of Island Gardens
    (presentations at noon and 2 p.m.)
  • SATURDAY, MAY 28: “Sustainable Design”
    with designer Michael McNamara of Blue Sky Design
    (presentations at noon and 2 p.m.)

GETTING THERE: The Natural Balance House is located on the northwest coast of San Juan Island. Free parking is available in the upper lot of Snug Harbor Resort, with continuous shuttle service to the home from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The island accessible by ferry, plane, or seaplane. Directions to Snug Harbor Resort from the Friday Harbor Ferry Dock: Turn right at Front St., left onto Spring St., 2nd right onto 2nd St. Continue onto Guard St., turn right to stay on Guard St., left at Beaverton Valley Rd. Continue onto W Valley Rd., left at Mitchell Bay Rd. Destination on the left. Address: Snug Harbor Resort, 1997 Mitchell Bay Road, Friday Harbor, WA 98250

ADMISSION: Admission is free, with a suggested $5 donation to the Island’s Whale Museum in support of efforts to safeguard local orcas. Please no children under 10, pets, or food or drink. The home is not wheelchair-accessible.

FOR MORE INFORMATION or to arrange a private tour for your group of 4 or more:
Pam Worner, Green Dog Enterprises, email Pam, 206.883.6688

Website: www.naturalbalancehouse.com

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Latest News” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:55px|text_align:center|color:%23000000|line_height:60px” google_fonts=”font_family:Lora%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal” el_class=”latest-news-new-page”][vc_row_inner el_class=”new-post-carousel”][vc_column_inner][na_posts_carousel height=”277px” excerpt=”0″ comment=”none” catg=”none” dot=”false” autoplay=”false” slide_visible=”2″ txtsize=”24px” txtclr=”#000000″ dateclr=”#686868″ descclr=”#888888″ settings=”size:10|order_by:date|order:ASC|post_type:post|categories:20″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_class=”get-in-touch-block”][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Have a Vision for your Unique Space? ” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:55px|text_align:center|color:%23000000|line_height:60px” google_fonts=”font_family:Lora%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal”][vc_custom_heading text=”Get In Touch” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:55px|text_align:center|color:%23597b7c|line_height:60px” google_fonts=”font_family:Lora%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal” el_class=”get-in-touch-link” link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fglassworksinc.com%2Fcontact-us%2F|||”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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In the Friday, April 15, 2011 issue of Puget Sound Business Journal, Staff Writer Steve Wilhelm featured the folks behind Glassworks Inc. in the Growing Your Business section of the paper.

Wilhelm’s article includes a brief examination of the 40+ year history of the company, Glassworks’s place in the Seattle Art Glass movement, as well as the business strategies employed to counter the recent slump in new construction.

Wilhelm writes:

Here’s the yin and yang that makes Glassworks Inc. work.

Steve Shahbaghlian founded Glassworks in 1968, but loved the art of it much more than the business side.

The Seattle company makes custom architectural glass installations for high-end homes and commercial settings. For decades, it has kept on remaking itself as Shahbaghlian has pushed the boundaries of what the material can do.

Tish Oye, a former social worker, had returned to school for a second career and was earning an MBA at California State University, San Bernardino, in 1983. That’s when she met Shahbaghlian through friends while skiing in Utah…

Puget Sound Business Journal Website:

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Latest News” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:55px|text_align:center|color:%23000000|line_height:60px” google_fonts=”font_family:Lora%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal” el_class=”latest-news-new-page”][vc_row_inner el_class=”new-post-carousel”][vc_column_inner][na_posts_carousel height=”277px” excerpt=”0″ comment=”none” catg=”none” dot=”false” autoplay=”false” slide_visible=”2″ txtsize=”24px” txtclr=”#000000″ dateclr=”#686868″ descclr=”#888888″ settings=”size:10|order_by:date|order:ASC|post_type:post|categories:20″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_class=”get-in-touch-block”][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Have a Vision for your Unique Space? ” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:55px|text_align:center|color:%23000000|line_height:60px” google_fonts=”font_family:Lora%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal”][vc_custom_heading text=”Get In Touch” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:55px|text_align:center|color:%23597b7c|line_height:60px” google_fonts=”font_family:Lora%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal” el_class=”get-in-touch-link” link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fglassworksinc.com%2Fcontact-us%2F|||”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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Portland based non-profit organization Salmon-Safe and Seattle’s NBIS teamed up to honor several Puget Sound area businesses who have made great efforts to protect Salmon runs and their habitats. NBIS member Glassworks, Inc. contributed art-glass award plaques that included a base made of 100% cast recycled glass to each recipient.

Recipients of the awards included:

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Salmon-Safe, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, was founded by Pacific Rivers Council to encourage farmers in the Willamette Valley, Oregon to convert to practices that would protect local salmon runs and their habitats. Salmon-Safe has since expanded to become one of the nation’s leading leading regional eco labels with more than 60,000 acres of farm and urban lands certified in Oregon, Washington, California, and British Columbia. You can find Salmon-Safe labels on wine and other items featured in 300 supermarkets and natural food stores.

Salmon-Safe has increased its ability to work across the West Coast through what they call their “Partner Network”. Established in 2007, the Partner Network consists of place-based conservation organizations as well as collaborating certification organizations. Founding organizations Stewardship PartnersOregon TilthLIVEMarin Organic, Applegate River Watershed Council, NBISand National Fish & Wildlife Foundation have been joined by Vinea and Trout Unlimited. In 2010, Salmon-Safe joined with two leading Canadian conservation organizations, Pacific Salmon Foundation and Fraser Basin Council, to expand Salmon-Safe certification across British Columbia.

More info on Salmon-Safe and NBIS:
http://nbis.org/programs/salmon-safe/
http://www.salmonsafe.org
http://nbis.org[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Latest News” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:55px|text_align:center|color:%23000000|line_height:60px” google_fonts=”font_family:Lora%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal” el_class=”latest-news-new-page”][vc_row_inner el_class=”new-post-carousel”][vc_column_inner][na_posts_carousel height=”277px” excerpt=”0″ comment=”none” catg=”none” dot=”false” autoplay=”false” slide_visible=”2″ txtsize=”24px” txtclr=”#000000″ dateclr=”#686868″ descclr=”#888888″ settings=”size:10|order_by:date|order:ASC|post_type:post|categories:20″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_class=”get-in-touch-block”][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Have a Vision for your Unique Space? ” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:55px|text_align:center|color:%23000000|line_height:60px” google_fonts=”font_family:Lora%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal”][vc_custom_heading text=”Get In Touch” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:55px|text_align:center|color:%23597b7c|line_height:60px” google_fonts=”font_family:Lora%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal” el_class=”get-in-touch-link” link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fglassworksinc.com%2Fcontact-us%2F|||”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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March 21, 2011 – US Senator Patty Murray met with a small group of Seattle area women business owners at the Seattle Women’s Business Center (1437 S. Jackson Street) to discuss a wide range of challenges, including access to capital and specific issues that women owned businesses face.

Glassworks, Inc. Principal, Tish Oye, was honored to be invited to participate, “I was impressed by everyone’s energy, creativity and ability to express our concerns to Senator Murray; and in response, Senator Murray was quite supportive and seemed to understand the issues that she will take back with her to DC.”

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We enjoy celebrating the success of our many creative and innovative design partners. This quarter we are focusing some special attention on Architects Hawaii staff members, Karen Muraoka, Interior Designer, and Mariel Moriwake, Associate AIA, who recently partnered with us in their design of the Straub Oncology Treatment Center in Honolulu, HI.

Designing a Healing Environment
From day one on this project, it was determined that the theme would center around nature and in particular “bamboo” elements. This became a healing environment drawing on the gentle colors and life giving images of nature and good health. This is a Clinic where most of the patients visit weekly for many hours of treatment and the importance of providing a comfortable and welcoming design setting is paramount to the healing process. This repeat experience needed to become a safe and friendly environment for patients and families to visit.

This project brought together the entire hospital and design team to the table to discuss the best solution to architectural finishes and their maintenance in the coming months and years. Environmental Services requested samples for testing. Finance required an initial and future price point that would meet the budget, and the design team maintained a voice to the vision of a healing environment.

The process for designing the glass included creative problem solving to achieve the desired effect while staying within budget and meeting deadlines for installation. More than a half-dozen samples were created to accomplish the desired soft and soothing effect while accomplishing the functional requirement of safety glass. These samples included fusing colored glass and laminating, fusing colored frit (fine granules of colored glass), and finally choosing slumped glass that was tempered and then back-painted. Glassworks staff worked closely with Architects Hawaii designers for technical consultation, fabrication information and installation advice to insure a successful outcome an ocean away.

This Clinic officially opened up for use recently and one of the best results is to hear how the patients, families and staff enjoy being in this environment. The severity and difficulty of having to endure chemotherapy for cancer and its ensuing after effects is so hard to bear and the small comforts of providing an environment that helps patients tolerate the effects is rewarding. The design also provided greater staff productivity and a lighter spirit in which to work.

 

Karen Muraoka is a Senior Associate and Studio Head in charge of the Interior Design Department at Architects Hawaii Ltd. (AHL) in Honolulu, Hawaii. She has been employed with AHL for 24 years. Her design specialties are healthcare, educational, corporate and government/institutional work. Karen is a professional member of both IIDA and ASID. Along with her position with the AAHID Board of Regents, she is the current Director of the Honolulu City Center, IIDA. Work in Asia and throughout the Pacific Rim has provided a variety of project types ranging from medical centers in Japan, a new medical school for the University of Hawaii, a capitol building interior space in Micronesia to corporate work for the State of Hawaii. She has received design excellence awards for the medical projects in Japan and Hawaii as well as for historical preservation work completed in Hawaii.

Mariel Moriwake, Associate AIA, joined Architects Hawaii in 2005. Her focus at AHL has been on healthcare projects, although she has also worked on projects in the retail and education sectors. She is a member of the United States Green Building Council, Hawaii Chapter, a LEED Accredited Professional, and serves as the Advocacy for Healthcare Committee Co-Chair. Mariel was the recipient of the 2009 Herman Miller Healthcare Design Conference Scholarship.

Architects Hawaii Recognitions in 2010:

  • Ranked No. 147 on the ZweigWhite Hot Firm 2010 list of the 150 fastest-growing U.S. and Canada architecture, engineering and environmental consulting firms
  • NAIOP Hawaii’s Architecture Firm of the Year
  • Ranked No. 92 nationally on Architectural Record’s annual Top 250 Architecture Firms
  • Ranked No. 48 nationally on Engineering News Record’s Annual Top 100 Green Design Firms 2010
  • Ranked No. 354 nationally on Engineering News Record’s annual Top 500 Design Firms 2010
  • Ranked No. 205 on Hawaii Business Magazine’s 2010 Top 250 list

More information on Architects Hawaii:
www.ahldesign.com

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