Rendering by GGLO GGLO is designing Avalon on the Square, a residential and retail project near Bellevue Square.

Demonstrating value to the client by integrating disciplines is one of GGLO’s new strengths, according to Carol Schaefer, managing principal.

A good example of the firm’s diversity is Washington Mutual’s leadership center at Cedarbrook, which begins construction this winter. The center is on 17 acres in SeaTac, and will be used by Washington Mutual to develop business tools.

“It’s a really exciting project for us,” Schaefer said. “It allows us to demonstrate capabilities in terms of integrated designs, where we supply architecture, interior design and landscape architecture. So it’s a wonderful blend of our studios.”

GGLO is also working on a master plan for a potential mixed-use development with Bloom Co. in the University District between 45th and 47th and Roosevelt and Ninth.

“Part of the discussion will be to take a look at existing uses — sustainability is important to us and our clients. It’s going to be an exciting project, and it’s nice to see that effort in a plan for the U District,” she said.

GGLO is also doing feasibility planning for a mixed-use project along the Willamette River in downtown Portland. The project would include housing and retail, and continue the greenway extension.

Another GGLO project under design is Avalon on the Square in downtown Bellevue. That project includes five stories of residential with retail and a Safeway store at the base.

“I think these projects show a variety of uses and are also good examples of the kinds of services we offer,” said Schaefer. Diversifying into a variety of markets has been a strong effort in recent years, Schaefer said. The firm remains strong in the single-family residential housing and hospitality areas and has strengthened its landscape and planning services sectors.

“What we’re seeing is, because we’re more diversified we’re able to bring more to the table,” she said. “It’s a coming of age for us.”

Still, coming of age in the wake of Sept. 11 is a challenge.

“The tragedy caused us to be more cautious, to certainly look at the projects we have on board and to make sure that the planning they had in place and analysis is still valid,” she said. “The good news for us is, in terms of fallout, many of our projects are in the future. Developers and owners are looking more carefully at the start date of construction.”