This adaptive re-use project for cannabis retailer The Reef is located on a prominent corner of Capitol Hill, Seattle’s longtime counterculture hub.

Inspired by the owner’s aspirations to elevate the in-store cannabis delivery model and create a space referencing the aquatic inspirations of the Pacific Northwest, the design emphasizes ideas of transparency and self-guided discovery while exploring concepts of immersion and underwater experience. Three large peninsula displays evoke geologically-shaped rock formations, topped with large glass vitrines that showcase cannabis in its raw state. Emphasizing budtender-to-consumer interaction, the displays allow budtenders to move in and around the space to engage customers. Bubble-like window displays bring the aquatic emphasis to the street-facing façade, which also features murals of Jacques Cousteau and an underwater scene by Seattle street artist Weirdo. Inside, a material palette of glass, reclaimed driftwood and concrete with sand-like aggregates completes the exploration of water and submersion.