A couple weeks ago we presented one of our three favorites from the 2012 myMarvin Architect's Challenge, the LEICESTER HOUSE by Eric Gartner. Today we bring you the RUSSELL T. JOY BUILDING by THA Architecture Inc.

              Marvin is proud to showcase some of the architectural community’s most
                                  inspired work in our annual Architect’s Challenge

The myMarvin Architect's Challenge winners projects are original designs, built within the last ten years, which incorporate Marvin® windows and/or doors.

Offering a small-campus environment in the heart of a historic, dynamic downtown, the University of Washington Tacoma is often cited as one of the most important factors in Tacoma’s renaissance. The renovation was the final step in the University’s ambitious restoration effort of this historically significant neighborhood.

The Russell T. Joy Building (Joy Building) is a three-story historic warehouse building originally constructed in 1892. Located at the north entry of the University, the Joy Building serves as a welcoming beacon and an entrance to a connective open space that runs through the campus. The addition of 16 classrooms, seminar rooms, and two large lecture halls address the growth needs of UW Tacoma, as well as a new office suite for the Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences department. The Joy Building achieved LEED Platinum certification.

The layout of the building situates classrooms on the east side of the building facing Pacific Avenue—with views out to the active streetscape and Tacoma's historic railroad station. Along Pacific Avenue, restaurant and retail space transforms the historic warehouse into a vibrant downtown storefront and enforces the strong ties the University has created with the Tacoma community.

As this building is situated in a historic district, it was important to work with a manufacturer who was able to provide a product that was not only energy efficient, but able to match the size and appearance of the original windows. The Marvin products met all of the project’s needs, integrating a custom extrusion designed to match the original profile while maintaining operability along the west façade to aid in the natural ventilation of the circulation and study areas. Both the design team and the owner were extremely pleased with the performance and appearance of the final installation.