La Mar

Project Overview

La Mar is an 8,434 SF restaurant in Bellevue and one of the most technically challenging projects we have taken on. From the start we knew the mechanical and plumbing systems would be demanding. The shell space came with several different slab heights, which created a maze of elevation changes, stairs and ramps. To solve it, we installed all new plumbing on top of the existing slab, set foam blocks over the entire layout and then poured a new concrete slab above it. It was one of the most complex systems we have ever built.

This was a negotiated project and we worked closely with the architect, Skidmore AI, and the owner throughout preconstruction. Together we worked through a detailed round of value engineering to bring the project within the owner’s budget while keeping the design intact. That partnership helped us navigate each hurdle without losing the character or quality of the space.

What makes La Mar unique is how completely the difficulty disappears in the finished restaurant. The intricate systems are buried beneath the floors and behind the walls, and the space feels calm, warm and effortless. The final result is beautiful and the hidden work behind it reflects the commitment of the entire team.