ZGF designed the commons—the new home for the Office of Advancement and the Alumni Association—to provide a welcoming, hospitable and memorable environment that conveys the spirit and rich history of the university. The 4,000 SF space includes reception, a living room style main gathering space, and a large conference room supported by a catering kitchen to host fundraising events and alumni gatherings. In working with the university to develop the vision for the space, identify commonalities between mission and program of both groups and to interpret the campus’ history, legacy and image a number of themes emerged that were embraced in the design including concepts of permanence, legacy, timelessness, transformation, and purpose. To evoke these themes gold and purple materials, finishes and lighting—traditional UW colors—were used generously throughout, elements such as the gothic relief and lit panel at the entry recall the historic Suzzallo Library form and stained glass windows at the heart of the campus, and the main board room includes a graphic composition of alumni celebrating the legacy of the institution.