Among the swiftly expanding neighborhoods in the northeast corner of the Salt Lake Valley, the burgeoning NOTE district sits at a short stroll from downtown Salt Lake City. CityStation, a veteran residential building on bustling North Temple, stands as a reflection of the urban evolution that swirls around it. CityStation had recently undergone a facelift, modernizing its exterior to align with the changing times, and was looking to update parts of its interiors as its next step in keeping pace with the times.

CityStation has been a constant in this lively neighborhood, boasting an engaged tenant community that embraces communal living and welcomes the evolving cityscape. When it came time to revamp the lobby, the goal was clear: a space that caters to current residents and appeals to potential newcomers. Our design approach diverged from the norm, steering away from the sterile, museum-like lobbies that seem to populate many apartment buildings. Instead, we aimed to create a lobby that felt warm and familiar—a natural extension of residents' living spaces.

The end result is a lobby that ticks all the boxes. As a whole it’s inviting and warm, with a touch of sophistication in the details. Built-in seating nestled in the corner of the room invites passersby to pause and chat, while a geometric couch anchors the space, its distinct form toeing the line between modern and cozy. Thoughtfully chosen LVT flooring and an updated paint scheme enhance the mood, giving the lobby a fresh, clean feel. Custom millwork adds personality to the shelving and walls, and a striking fireplace surround serves as the visual focal point, infusing the space with depth and warmth no matter the season.

The design process for the lobby involved a strategic reorganization of the layout, focusing on improving accessibility for daily-use areas, like mail pickup, without altering the building's structure. Subtle adjustments played a key role, ensuring a noticeable impact without disrupting the building's core. Throughout the construction process, the daily routines of the CityStation community remained at the forefront, guiding every decision.