KNKX Public Radio (Pacific Public Media)

Seattle, Washington

V Three Studios recently partnered with KNKX, a leading public radio station in the Pacific Northwest, to transform a 7,200-square-foot concrete warehouse in downtown Seattle into a state-of-the-art broadcasting facility. Overlooking the bustling intersection of the Pike Street Hill Climb and Seattle's waterfront district, the renovated space is housed within the historic Madore Building, a Seattle fixture since 1915.

With a design aesthetic that celebrates the building's historic character, V Three Studios introduced a clean, modern, and technologically advanced edge to the facility. The project includes offices for administration, business development, programming, technical spaces for on-air, production and performance studio, technical operations center, and engineering spaces to support the station’s award-winning news operation and widely followed jazz program. 

The design challenge was to work with the building's low ceilings, large column capitals, and robust infrastructure while capitalizing on the stunning views and natural light from three sides of the building. V Three Studios devised an innovative solution by placing the tech core at the center of the facility, with office spaces on the downtown side and collaborative/public spaces on the waterfront side.

V Three Studios' expertise in blending aesthetics and technical capabilities ensured that the project's design accommodated the necessary infrastructure, such as complex mechanical systems, cable trays, and electrical and data conduit, without sacrificing the visual appeal of the space.

Having now successfully completed projects for both KNKX's Tacoma and Seattle locations, V Three Studios has once again demonstrated its commitment to creating spaces that enhance the lives of others and achieve the unique goals of its clients. By combining a deep understanding of KNKX's mission with their design expertise, V Three Studios created a broadcasting facility that serves as a testament to the power of innovative design and its ability to foster collaboration, creativity, and connection. Through a thoughtful balance of historic preservation and modern technology, the new KNKX Seattle space stands as an inspiring and engaging environment for its staff, visitors, and the Pacific Northwest community it serves.