Architectural Office
With both developer and architect as client, the architect planned an adaptive reuse of an old warehouse building and converted it to Class “A” office space that would become the architect’s new regional headquarter space. Though part of a suburban office park, the building and interiors had to reflect the culture of the international firm, and be a primary design marketing vehicle for the firm, and developer. The offices were to be state of the art and reflect innovative thinking while, at the same time, be appealing to the firm’s diverse clientele.
Goals for the offices were to create a ‘laboratory of design’ featuring state of the art mechanical systems, lighting and materials. Creating responsible, vital, sustainable design in an environment where ‘factory meets art gallery’ is energizing for the firm. To create an open plan office where staff interaction would be facilitated by design; where each staff member would benefit from natural light and the expansive exterior view; to employ sustainable measures and be cost-effective and to create a showcase of design illustrative of the firm’s strong brand.
The building was designed with a ‘factory meets gallery’ approach. High ceiling heights open the white space throughout, revealing structure, piping and ductwork running the length and width of the space. Linear low-rise white and steel workstations create a strong grid penetrated by a central reception area and a room-size “brainstorming” cube of yellow glass off-center to the space. Natural light fills every inch of the space with floor to ceiling windows running the length. Clusters of seating are located throughout the offices facilitating interactive meetings between all groups. A large conference room for private client meetings vs. open conferencing areas offers diverse collaborative meeting opportunities. Energy efficient lighting and recycled materials are utilized throughout the interior and exterior.
While the original warehouse was structurally sound, it was not designed for insulation, heating or proper electrical systems. There was no access to parking and nothing in the building was up to code. The owner had to be convinced that while the design solution was unique, it would also be functional and aesthetically pleasing. The schedule was initially unrealistic and, let’s face it, when an architectural team has themselves for a client, there are 45 critics for every idea.
To create an innovative environment that would be a ‘laboratory of design’ for the architect and satisfy the developer client as well, a working environment was created that is 100% visible to everyone. Upon entry, the space reveals the firm’s workday as it unfolds with reception, staff and workstations, conferencing, resource area, and private offices part of the panoramic view. Exposed structure and ductwork and factory-style lighting runs throughout the space, augmented with accent lighting. Glass wall partitions allow for privacy and visibility and allow the space to be acoustically private. Use of LED screens strategically located throughout the offices tell the firm’s story and are used for client communication. Only the pantry is discreetly tucked behind a simple white wall, yet when revealed is colorful and communal and open to the outside. The entire project was completed on time and brought in economically, beneficial to the architect and developer as well.
The adaptive reuse building is a ‘shot in the arm’ for the suburban office park setting a precedent for what can be achieved in recycling older, industrial buildings. With the vacancy rate hovering near 3% in the region, lease rates become even more competitive with the building recycling. (The developer has commissioned the architect to undertake similar projects within the office park for other clientele.)
Unique project elements include factory lighting throughout the space incorporating fluorescent tubes for sustainability.
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