Students from around the world come together to share meals at “Center Table,” University of Washington’s market, cafe, and grill located in Willow Hall on the North Campus. Environmental graphics celebrate cuisine and culture, featuring markets from Italy and Japan, unique beverages from every continent, and grilled specialties from Argentina and the United States.
A college campus is a vibrant tapestry of community, connection, and culture, and the University of Washington recognized this in their vision for a new North Campus dining facility. Working closely with Graham Baba Architects to integrate graphics into the unique architecture, the space is transformed to celebrate the diverse cuisines and cultures present on campus. Signage materials and colors were selected to align with architectural finishes while still reflecting the vision for a welcoming and inclusive dining experience.
Graphics were thoughtfully crafted to represent various cultures and cuisines, incorporating functional elements. The central graphics around the seating area showcase patterns inspired by global dining, while an accent wall resembles night markets, arranged like the periodic table to highlight the science of food. The result is a dynamic environment where students can connect and recharge, with striking graphics that identity the different food stations and embody the values of the University. Center Table now serves as a hub for shared meals and new friendships.