SEEC, a nonprofit agency dedicated to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, approached their design with a profound mission in mind. Their goal was to create a space that not only reflected their commitment to enriching the community but also embodied inclusivity, adaptability, and choice.

Drawing inspiration from embroidery, the design concept beautifully symbolized how SEEC weaves the individuals they support into the community fabric, adding a layer of beauty and richness that wouldn’t exist otherwise. This metaphor was thoughtfully translated into four distinct finish palettes, each corresponding to different embroidery types: Jacobean, Applique, Underlay, and Tackle Twill. These palettes added depth and texture to the design, creating a visually captivating and sensory-rich environment.

One of the most remarkable aspects of this project was the challenge of unifying multiple departments while respecting their unique requirements. To address this, each department was given the opportunity to select furniture pieces for their designated neighborhood within the floorplan. This approach allowed for personalization and flexibility while fostering a sense of belonging within the larger SEEC community.

Furthermore, the design prioritized accessibility and functionality to cater not only to SEEC’s staff but also to the broader community and the individuals they serve. Thoughtful considerations included furniture heights, stability, sensory elements, and ease of use. The space featured an array of amenities, including an ADA-compliant shower station, extra-large restroom stalls for caregivers, a mothers’ room, exercise room, and wellness room. These elements demonstrated SEEC’s commitment to supporting the physical and mental well-being of their employees and the community they serve.

The resulting office serves as a testament to the power of design in creating spaces that not only look aesthetically pleasing but also cater to the diverse needs of the community. The design concept, inspired by embroidery, beautifully encapsulated SEEC’s mission of enriching the community fabric through inclusivity, adaptability, and choice.

General Contractor: Bognet Construction
MEP Engineering: Greenman-Pedersen, Inc.
Photography: Spielmann Studio