CASE STUDY
The Viking Union at Western Washington University (WWU) has long been a hub for campus activity. In 2019, the complex was expanded to add a new Multicultural Center to honor and support the University's growing diverse population and encourage understanding of multiple cultures.
Spaces within the Multicultural Center were designed to have distinct identities and create a sense of community. Our job was to bring these designs to life by producing and installing environmental graphics.
As a trusted advisor, we worked closely with the school, student council, designers, and architecture firm to fully understand the project scope and vision. Our team began by doing site surveys and recommending materials that supported the design and would reflect the school's spirit.
A wall within the Ethnic Student Center (ESC) provided the perfect opportunity to flex our woodworking capabilities. We worked with the designer to develop and produce laser-etched wooden plaques representing each club within the ESC. The wood hand logo at the center of the wall was routed and stained by our talented fabrication team.
Before production and installation, we took field measurements and performed color testing in all installation areas. The testing ensured each chosen material worked within the space and with lighting elements to achieve the intended look. We produced graphics and signage on a variety of mediums, including: dimensional acrylic letters, vinyl wayfinding decals, glass privacy film, and magnetic walls. It was important to the client (and us, of course!) to use green products wherever possible. The large-scale wall coverings made up the bulk of the material used so we printed them on a sustainable substrate made from post-consumer recycled content. The result is an award-winning Multicultural Center that supports the important work of students and celebrates the natural environment of Western Washington. We were proud to work on this project that positively impacts the WWU community and generations of students to come.
We’re big fans of our Pacific Northwest colleges and universities. If you’re ready to elevate a space in your school, give us a shout! We’re experts in floor and wall graphics, wayfinding signage, dimensional letters and logos, glass privacy film, LED lighting, and more! Contact us to get started.
Design: Bryan Potter Design
Architect: Opsis Architecture
Photos Courtesy of: Opsis Architecture
