We turn old bones into vibrant, modern spaces.
Like a hinge – a simple device that transforms space with a gentle shift – we adapt and elevate what has been left behind, balancing structural history with visionary design.
Designing for Flexibility & Long-Term Reuse
Buildings shouldn’t just be used once – they should be built to evolve.
We approach every project with future adaptability in mind. By creating flexible layouts, modular systems, and adaptable structural frameworks, we ensure spaces can easily transform to meet changing needs and be reused again and again over time.
What We Do: Creative Reuse
We go beyond standard adaptive reuse. By combining structural revitalization with material reclamation, we create high-quality, sustainable environments that honor a building’s history while reducing carbon impact.
- Preserve Embodied Energy: The greenest building is the one that already exists. Keeping frames, foundations, and masonry avoids massive carbon emissions.
- Unearth “Old Bones”: We strip away decades of modern drywall to reveal original fire brick, heavy timber, and industrial steel.
- Reclaim & Salvage: Demolition materials are transformed into custom millwork, furniture, and feature walls.
- Design for Deconstruction: Circular layouts and zero-waste detailing keep materials cycling in active use.
- Targeted Custom Details: Simple, durable spaces with high-impact, custom design touches where they matter most.
Featured Projects
DeLille Cellars Winery (Woodinville)
Transformed an abandoned brewery into a 30k sq ft winery; repurposed tank bracing into a 3-story tasting tower.
Seatown Vet (Greenwood))
Maximize-designed a compact 1,200 SF footprint to fit 3 exam rooms and a full surgical suite, featuring bold tiles, eclectic finishes, and a reclaimed wood lath reception desk.
Our Vodka Distillery (Ballard)
Uncovered raw steel frameworks and crafted tasting room tables from salvaged old-growth wood.
The Lounge at DeLille (Woodinville)
Built a custom window wall using heavy timbers salvaged from a demolished warehouse.
Seatown Vet West (Greenwood)
Converted a 9,000 SF former coffee roastery into a modern clinic, preserving its exposed structure and steel staircase while adding light-filled clinical suites.
Glass Vodka Distillery (SODO)
Used a 1920s concrete frame, claddings of reclaimed timber, and a salvaged 1920s truck entrance door.
Lake Wenatchee Cabin (Leavenworth
Clad with rescued Idaho white cedar and whitewashed plywood for under $100/SF
Jet City Animal Clinic (Capitol Hill)
Crafted a custom reception desk from salvaged blown-glass blocks paired with vintage industrial lighting.
The Commons & Ohana (Woodinville / Issaquah)
Incorporated bar tops made from sunken cargo ship timber and 90% repurposed interior finishes.
SIFF Film Center (Seattle)
Restored Paul Thiry’s 1962 World’s Fair building, unearthing the original staircase and incorporating reclaimed theater seats.
connect the past to the future
& protect the future with the past
Why Hinge Studio?
- 15+ Years of Expertise: 150+ projects navigating the technical complexities of existing structures.
- Hands-On Leadership: The architects who design your project guide it through construction.
- Woman-Owned (WBE/DBE): Equity-driven, collaborative problem solvers.
Washington State Reuse Resources
We believe in supporting local circular economies. Explore regional material, tool, and deconstruction resources:
- Repair & Reuse Network
- Local Organizations: Washington ReUses | Seattle REconomy | Shoreline Tool Library | Seattle ReCreative | Methow Recycles
- Salvage & Lumber Hubs: Earthwise | Earthwise Lumber Warehouse | Second Use | Ballard Reuse | Bellingham Reuse Center | ReUse Consulting & Deconstruction