Comprised of two and a half levels, the Vertical Arts space opens up to Mt. Werner Road, Steamboat Springs, CO, and uses raw materials such as steel and wood to contrast with more refined surfaces and fixtures.
The main anchoring element is the two-story asymmetrical steel frame located in the heart of the office. Skinned by overlapping panels of amber translucent 3form, this wall is wrapped by a steel and glass staircase that leads from the main level gallery and conference room up to the mid-level reception area and the working studio spaces and material libraries above. The dormers in the studio space look towards Mt. Werner and the Steamboat ski area.
Green building practices were a priority in the design development of the space and the project is currently in the process of becoming LEED certified. The Vertical Arts space highlights sustainable materials including a striped cork floor, compressed sunflower hull desk surfaces and custom concrete countertops and sinks. The natural feel of the sustainable finish materials is complimented by splashes of bright yellow/ green painted dormers. The intent of the design was to create an open, contemporary and flexible space that would provide a healthy and inspiring atmosphere for the office employees.