New Space. New Beginnings.
After months of construction, our lobby remodel project is officially finished!
Back in June, our adoption lobby flooded and our team faced a choice. Either repair what was broken or reimagine the space where second chances begin to create a better experience for our staff, volunteer, and community.
To make this dream a reality, our team partnered with local and national experts to create something truly special to reimagine how we serve animals and families. Animal Arts, the nation’s leading architecture firm specializing in animal-centric design, helped us draft plans for the new spaces. Saybr Contractors, Inc., a Tacoma-based, woman-owned general contractor lead the project to ensure every detail was completed, while also minimizing disruption for our animals, staff, volunteers, and community.
Built for Connection
Our adoptions lobby needed a floor-to-ceiling overhaul to not only remedy the flood damage but to bring our space and adoption practices into the modern era.
As an intentional part of the redesign, the previous lobby counter, which created a literal barrier between our team and potential adopters, was removed. The new open-concept design creates a modular environment for our team members to comfortably and accessibly work alongside families to find the perfect pet. We added storage solutions for our teams to help streamline processes to ensure everything they need is right at their fingertips.
We believe that asking for a helping hand should be met with dignity, so we’ve transformed the pantry lobby into a space that feels both professional and deeply welcoming. By streamlining the layout, we’ve created a more comfortable flow for our visitors and a much more efficient workspace for the staff and volunteers who keep the shelves stocked. It’s more than just a fresh look, it’s about ensuring that every neighbor who walks through our doors feels supported, respected, and right at home.
We also added improved energy-efficient lighting, clear wayfinding signage, and comfortable waiting areas designed to reduce stress for both people and pets.
Unveiling the Vision
On Monday, February 23, we celebrated the official unveiling of this redesigned space. It was an honor to share what had just been a dream when construction first started in September with some of the folks that helped make it a reality. A special thank you to all those who joined us for such a special evening filled with laughter, heartfelt conversations, and speeches from our CEO, Leslie Dalzell, and Council Member John Hines.
An Effort You Made Possible
Thanks to our dedicated donors who embraced our vision. Your support didn’t just restore what was; it created what should be. You helped us build a space that streamlines our adoption process, reduces stress for animals, and ultimately saves more lives.
Today, our revitalized lobby is more than just a renovated space. It is a warm first impression, a place where barriers are removed, connections begin, and new families are formed.
