King County Wastewater Treatment Facility

Transformation of Space

The intention of the branding and wayfinding integration was to help establish a sense of history, pride and place for workers of the wastewater treatment system, and the people and waters they protect. Our charge was to identify key locations within the project where art and graphics could serve to transform the space and tell the story of the West Section.

Some practical considerations included signage and installations that were functional, practical, informative, low maintenance and interchangeable. Another goal was to minimize signage as much as possible limiting it to better the lives of the building users and wherever possible, making it relevant and interesting to occupants beyond initial interactions. 

The historic timeline installation was designed to highlight the diverse nature of the workforce, honor those past and present, engage newer employees, tell the story of the system and reflect the region and environment that WTD protects. The installation is modular to allow for maximum flexibility to create the ability to continue to add to the story. 

The King County Wastewater Treatment Division has a big job to do— protecting the waters throughout the region. The West Section plays a critical role with 24/7 around the clock workers who maintain the system. Our job was to help create spaces that welcome their return at all hours and all seasons. Art and environmental graphics serve to transform their work space into a welcoming space.