Project Info:

This renovation focused on turning a 1947 warehouse facility into a contemporary professional office for an Architecture, Planning, and IT firm. The overall goal was to promote a professional atmosphere for clients and colleagues while enhancing team interaction. The main 'axis' concept for organizing circulation defines movement and views through the space along a 35º rotated geometry.

The design goal of the interior space was to maximize daylighting and views to the exterior, reduce the feel of a "cubicle farm," create functional break out spaces without causing disruption to co-workers, and zone the areas. Administration is in the center for easy access by all departments, while Architecture, Planning, and IT have their own areas but are still open to one another for interaction. All original window locations were restored and all previous garage door openings were converted to windows. The uppermost band of windows was fitted with light louvers, capable of throwing sunlight 80 feet into the interior, washing the reflective ceiling with natural light and lessening the dependence on artificial lighting during sunny Colorado days.

The interior was laid out to slowly reveal the open office areas to visitors. Upon entering the main reception area one first experiences the black granite topped, angular reception desk. The desk is defined by the 35-degree angle of the main circulation corridor. This strong organizing element connects the main conference room with the primary employee entrance off the alley and is emphasized by a suspended perforated metal panel element. Freestanding interior wall partitions of varying heights are used along the main axis to channel the view along the axis within the main open office area. As visitors progress from the formal conference and reception area beyond the administrative area, the ceiling height opens up to the underside of the roof and exposed structure washed in light from the louvers in the perimeter windows. A few hard walled offices are placed on the exterior walls with interior glazing to allow views to the exterior. The system furniture also incorporates glazing for the same purpose.

Higher levels of finishes were concentrated in the areas that are commonly seen by clients – the entry and reception, the large conference room, and the restrooms. Isolating these spaces from the open office was desirable so clients would not be required to walk through the work area. The restrooms are enlivened by under lit red acrylic countertops and stainless steel accents in the tile and fixtures.

The break room was an important addition to the office. Separating it from the main work area was highly desirable so the architect took advantage of the raised loading area to provide the desirable effect. The overhead doors were replaced with glazing, allowing a dramatic amount of lighting into the space and connecting it to the exterior patio, former loading dock. The trash container surround was placed to allow some screening for the patio and a location for some additional plantings. The break room finishes were intended to be playful, to have a place where the staff could relax. The marmoleum floor has the word "BREAK" spelled out in a different color; the cabinets have a metallic look finish; the appliances are stainless steel; the tables and chairs have a metallic finish as well; and the closet has a shimmer screen rather than a door.