Visit the showroom:

The Showroom Story

Kimball International relocated their showroom from their long-term home adjacent to Chicago’s Merchandise Mart to Fulton Market. The new showroom immerses Kimball International in Chicago’s newest design district while creating one unified space to exhibit their broad portfolio of brands.

The site is located on the 7th floor of 318 North Carpenter, a new construction concrete loft. With a clear, open floorplate, glazing on three sides, and a wraparound roof deck, the space steeps the occupant in the surrounding urban texture and blends interior and exterior.

The driving principle behind the design is a shift from seeing the “showroom” as a place of exhibition to being a series of experiences. The showroom is reframed as a design consultancy, rather than a sales floor.

A two-sided volume defines the center of the plan; hospitality bar on one side, design studio on the other. Visitors circulate around this central mass exploring different vignettes – lounge, collaboration, heads-down, wellness – while in constant dialogue with the outside. Bold, saturated colors and texture-rich materials create the feeling of a social space, rather than a museum of furniture.

Project Details

Kimball International’s Chicago showroom was conceived with WELL standards in mind from the beginning. All of the major social and work spaces have direct access to natural light, while electric lighting is precisely zoned and controllable by the occupant for maximum comfort. Abundant plantings give freshness and delight to the air, while connecting the interior with the exterior. The roof deck is programmed with both active spaces for gaming as well as quiet, contemplative spaces to relax and experience the outside. A robust food service and prep kitchen area encourage mindful eating and food preparation and give ample space and facilities for the storage and preparation of healthy, home-prepared meals.

Continuing the theme of the showroom as an extension of and connection point to the city, a bold, faceted portal with integrated lighting and plants frames the threshold condition between the public elevators and the showroom, creating a mental border between “inside” and “outside” in the interior of the space.

Kimball International has a long history of partnering and foregrounding local artists in the cities where they have showrooms. In the Chicago showroom, Kimball International partnered with fiber artist Windy Chien to create a whimsical swagged light fixture (see below) over the serving bar. The delicate macrame and spontaneous draping act as a counterpoint to the structured geometries of the surrounding architecture.

3 Must-See Products 

The Kithara Collection by David Edward

Designed by Brad Ascalon, Kithara will be launching in the fall of 2023. The collection will include lounge seating and coordinating occasional tables with stunning design elements. From hand-stitched details on the arms with a contrasting stitch color option to mortise and tenon joints in the rounded, artisan Walnut or Maple frames, Kithara showcases bold talent and creative energy.

EverySpace by Kimball

Kimball introduces a new, modular workplace platform that can create workstations for any situation. EverySpace is a comprehensive solution that puts the user at the center of its design. It can flex and flow as needs change and work styles evolve. Designed in collaboration with CSD Studio, EverySpace offers adaptable architecture that supports users throughout their day.

EverySpace brings personal, human feeling into highly functional spaces. Its beauty and attention to detail in conjunction with its multitude of storage and casework configurations make the user feel like their station is tailored to fit their specific needs and work style. To say that it can be used across an entire floorplate is not an exaggeration. Its customizable platform gracefully accommodates individual wants and spatial needs.

Tessera by National

Tessera’s comprehensive portfolio includes casegoods, storage, wall panels and shelves, conference and occasional tables, and benches. Showcasing a contemporary vibe with a floating top aesthetic, Tessera desks and workstations feature a sleek and angular design. Its vast array of storage options allows the user to tailor it to their personal needs, while adjustable height worksurface options create maximum productivity and versatility. The unique wall panel allows storage, shelves, and surfaces to be strategically placed to add visual interest and functional elements. The tables collection offers solutions for meeting spaces and gathering areas. Utilize Tessera’s coordinating benches to provide a creative and comfortable seating experience.

Showroom Tours

Open by appointment M-F 9:00–5:00. For a tour of the showroom, please contact Elisa Gutierrez.

Showroom Address:

• 7th Floor, 318 N Carpenter St, Chicago, IL 60607

Design Team

• Peter Randolph, AIA
• Mel Chotiner, NCIDQ
• Emily Koss
• Carla Arroyo

Photography credit

• Kendall McCaugherty | Hall + Merrick + McCaugherty

The post Step Inside Kimball International’s Chicago Showroom by Eastlake Studio appeared first on Work Design Magazine.

The Showroom Story

Partners by Design worked hand in hand with JSI’s creative team to move their Chicago showroom from the Merchandise Mart to a Fulton Market light-filled and brand-centric space that was more than a showroom – it’s a place where the JSI family and its clients gathers to have fun, learn about their history, and craft the future.

JSI believes in the power of inspiration, and when people are inspired to “Love What You Do” (one of their guiding principles), the possibilities are limitless. In order to rouse that creative spirit in its visitors, the Partners by Design team developed an architecturally flexible background that was clean and modern, where fun, cheeky, unexpected wow moments could be layered over and switched out year after year. The goal was a physical environment that conveys JSI’s brand, placed its culture at the forefront, and celebrated & empowered people to love what they do!

That contemporary aesthetic was tempered through the lens of JSI’s rich history and legacy of quality craftsmanship. Founded in 1876 in Southern Indiana, the showroom features artifacts and imagery that honor the tradesmen and women who built the company, preserving its legacy for future generations. Many of the architectural components, such as the reception display, the corridor’s slat walls, the pantry’s millwork, and the library’s hanging wood planks were all produced in-house by JSI’s team of craftspeople.

Another key design driver was JSI’s focus on family and hospitality, which led to many relationship-focused layouts and soft, inviting spaces. The showroom set a new standard for workspace design, offering a comprehensive collection of lovingly crafted versatile products and solutions that foster collaboration, productivity, and well-being. The design includes a cozy fireplace lounge, a bright café space with an adjoining patio, a flexible library and collaboration room, and an art-filled conferencing and private office suite, each of which provides ergonomic solutions that embody the authentic nature of materials. It’s a remarkable showroom that showcases JSI’s dedication to providing exceptional furniture solutions for work and life.

Project Details

Branding elements are thoughtfully integrated into the space, showcasing JSI’s identity, craft, and heritage. Visitors will encounter artifacts and imagery dating back to the late 1800s, built with the provenance of a company that owns and operates the oldest continuously operating furniture factory in the US, and one that received the first-ever US patent issued to a factory in their industry. But there are also many playful and unexpected moments that highlight JSI’s young and modern personality – Easter Eggs abound in custom wallcoverings, tile patterns, and artwork throughout the space, bringing a smile to visitors. These branding elements serve as a reminder of the company’s legacy and the values they uphold.

Custom solutions are at the heart of JSI’s craft capabilities, recognizing the unique fingerprint of each project. By prominently featuring a broad range of custom offerings, JSI put its own special touch on both the furnishings and architectural details, allowing architects, designers, and dealers to visualize the possibilities of customized solutions that seamlessly integrate with their specific design visions and functional needs.

The showroom serves as an experiential platform where visitors can physically engage with the furniture, test ergonomic features, and immerse themselves in various work environments on display. It can be utilized as a hub for industry events, workshops, and interactive demonstrations, fostering a vibrant community of professionals passionate about innovative workspace design. The showroom becomes a collaborative space where industry leaders and design enthusiasts can gather, exchange ideas, and explore the possibilities and impact of design.

Inaugural Year Highlights

The journey of our showroom space in Fulton Market has been incredibly successful and fulfilling. There is something to be said about the phrase – “if you build it, they will come.” We have had tremendous feedback from tour groups enjoying the space and experiencing our furniture firsthand, and our reps have done amazing work in curating events that shine light on community events that support the design industry including hosting Bizarre Bazaar benefitting IIDA Illinois, encouraging young girls in business through hosting a roundtable of female CEOs for Female Strong, and much more.

Our Fulton Market showroom is a success story in showcasing exactly what we were hoping for – a place for people to gather, interact, collaborate and enjoy themselves – all in the presence of beautifully crafted furniture made by people who love what they do.

Must-See Products

Cosgrove

Cosgrove is the quintessential, slimline executive chair that embodies mid-century sleekness. The quilted back detail enhances its refinement while ensuring comfort. With its solid wood or black polyurethane arm cap detail, materiality is celebrated. The smooth texture provides a comfortable hand as the polished aluminum loop arm seamlessly curves downward.

Kindera

Kindera is a performance recliner that focuses on the patient to provide seamless, engaged care. Providers flow through their work naturally as they utilize intuitively located adjustment controls. With the patent pending Trans4rm system, Kindera allows either recliner arm to retract into the frame, creating a smooth platform for safe transfers.

Satisse

It’s rare that a metal seating line offers the range to not only provide comfort and style, but also innovation. With its comforting design and diverse offering, Satisse provides options for guest, lounge, patient, and bariatric, while introducing the patent pending MagLinx connectors to make rearranging and installation a breeze.

Project Summary

Partners by Design’s new JSI showroom is one of the most authentic brand representations, created in big part by JSI’s own resources and craft experience. It’s a welcoming space with a relatable soul, a place to collaborate and create, and a place for individuals to find passion and fulfillment in their work.

Please contact Ashley Delano at Level Reps for a showroom tour.

Tours are available by appointment only. Please visit 345 N. Morgan Street, Chicago IL 60607, and you’ll be escorted to the 6^th floor!

Design Team

• Arthur Garcia-Clemente, Senior Designer
• Esther Hah – Project Architectural Designer
• Jennifer Jacque – Project Director
• BIG – Contractors
• Lumen – Project Management
• CBRE – Commercial Real Estate
• JSI Marketing & Design Team

Photography credit

• Ross Floyd

See where the showroom is now:

The JSI Showroom: Revisiting Fulton Market Innovation

The post Step Inside JSI’s Fulton Market Showroom by Partners by Design appeared first on Work Design Magazine.

The Showroom Story

Tarkett opened a new showroom in Fulton Market in June 2022. In addition to its 10,000 square-foot space, Tarkett has access to the building’s rooftop patio with 360° views of the city skyline. Overall, the space is designed for the needs of today’s workstyles, with natural light, access to the outdoors, and flexible spaces for both independent work and collaboration.

The showroom was designed by Kuchar, a woman-owned boutique based in Chicago. Project designer Rachel Benitez said the space draws inspiration from the dynamic Fulton Market neighborhood and its industrial roots.

“The space is surrounded by floor to ceiling windows, so one is surrounded by natural light, downtown views, urban living, and the constant movement of the former industrial district. A sophisticated, neutral palette creates a clean backdrop for gentle nods to the neighborhood’s character. The aesthetic is truly a celebration of the floor,” Benitez said.

After two years of remote work, Tarkett has recognized a growing desire to reconnect as more people shift toward hybrid work styles that better support their overall wellbeing. It was this process of coming together as individuals to build and create that inspired Tarkett’s Collaborative collection.

The new collection emerged from a collaborative mark-making process led by Tarkett’s vice president of design for its commercial business, Omoleye Simmons. As a former art educator, Simmons has experience coaching designers in technology and concept development, translating art to product. That process is evident in the collection’s design patterns, which were created by layering the marks of different team members, integrating and transforming them into something much greater than the sum of its parts.

“In creating this collection, our goal was to celebrate hyper collaboration through cooperative artwork,” Simmons said. “We embarked on a hands-on exploration that included mark-making, spraying and brushing watercolor paint, and layering paper. We experimented across design studios, sharing steps in the design process—selecting each others’ creations to merge with our own and offering feedback along the way.”

Showroom Details

In addition to showcasing Tarkett’s latest product collections, the showroom serves as a daily workspace for local employees, as well as a gathering space for client meetings and events. Large conference rooms, private offices, open collaboration areas, and a full kitchen are all surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows and enjoy access to a small balcony and expansive rooftop. Clients are able to access Tarkett’s entire library of product solutions, making it an ideal place to gather inspiration for current projects.

The Fulton Market District has transformed into a notable design destination, brimming with restaurants, entertainment and some of the world’s leading architecture and design brands.

3 NEW Must-See Products

Layered Duality

Debuting at Design Days, the Layered Duality collection of high-performance flooring brings together diverse forms, textures, and colors to create a dynamic sense of unity for interior spaces. Contrasting aesthetics combine with a mindful approach to materials, delivering a unique level of harmony to any room or area. The collection features four soft-surface patterns and two non-PVC plank and tile patterns.

Johnsonite Color of the Year

Demonstrative of its leadership in color, the new Johnsonite Color of the Year program brings new palette inspiration to customers’ designs. This year, Johnsonite’s color expert Janette Murray has developed not one, but seven inspiring new colorways for Color of the Year 2024: Sophisticated Raspberry, Aged Denim, Golden Joy, Earthen Brown, Retrospective Orange, Artful Sage, and Nostalgic Pink. The new shades are available in Johnsonite rubber flooring tile, rubber and vinyl wall base, and rubber and vinyl stair treads.

Powerbond® Hybrid Carpet

Powerbond® hybrid carpet, the world’s first certified asthma & allergy friendly® soft-surface flooring, combines the look and feel of carpet with the durability and cleanability of a resilient surface. It was specifically developed to address potential problems associated with indoor air quality and building-related illness. Unlike most soft-surface floorcoverings, Powerbond provides a wall-to-wall moisture barrier to ensure leaks and spills are easily extracted and never reach the subfloor, helping to prevent conditions favorable to mold growth. Powerbond’s unique construction is available in hundreds of Tarkett designs and can be combined with Tarkett’s Imaginations® custom cutting program to display unique visuals such as brand names, logos, mascots, wayfinding or communications.

Showroom Summary

• Tours: For a private showroom tour, please contact: Rachel Brewer.
• Location: Tarkett at Fulton Market is located in the Fulton East Building at 215 N. Peoria, Floor 10, Chicago, IL 60607.

Tarkett Design Team

• Omoleye Simmons
• Leigh Wright
• Leslie Grissom
• Emily Jolley
• Jess Vera
• Rachelle Roberts
• Janette Murray

Photography 

• Courtesy of Tarkett

Go Beyond the Showroom

Tarkett’s ReStart® Recycling Program: Keeping Old Flooring Out of the Landfill

The post Take A Tour Of Tarkett’s Fulton Market Showroom  appeared first on Work Design Magazine.

An existing 22,000 square foot industrial building in Brooklyn, formerly used as a bakery, was converted into an office and production studio for Madwell, a creative agency. PSF Projects worked collaboratively with Madwell to develop and implement new strategies of organization that reflect their fluid and changing business. A variety of open and private work and meeting areas have been created by carefully locating a series of simple wood-clad volumes throughout the vast space. Large open areas and a series of skylights allow daylight deep into the previously dark building.

This project shows a clear diagram and thinking about public and private spaces. There are generous social and gathering spaces throughout, which closely reflects the culture that Madwell encourages. An indoor garden referred to as the Solarium is adjacent to the kitchen and eating area. Together with wide pathways, these generous spaces create a place where the entire staff of the company can gather for company-wide meetings, social events and generally feel a sense of community.

Inherently sustainable given the adaptive reuse of the existing building, the envelope of the structure was largely left as is, except for the addition of skylights. Existing materials of the industrial building were coated in monochromatic paint, subtly revealing the textures. The unassuming exterior is painted near black, so that stucco, exposed concrete, and the varying brick sizes are united into a collage of textures. Similarly, on the inside the existing roof trusses, masonry walls, and concrete floors are all painted shades of light grey and white, creating a background against which raw wood, pops of color in paint, fabric, and tile, as well as art animate the space.

Project Planning

Madwell’s Chief Creative Officer, Chief Financial Officer, and others in leadership were involved in the conceptualization and direction of design decisions from day one, with constant input and responses to proposals and ideas presented by the PSF design team. Successful elements and details from previous office locations were reconsidered and repurposed where applicable to the new space, and the selections of colors, finishes, and furnishings were made collaboratively with Madwell’s in-house creative team. There was a constant focus on creating a heterogenous mix of gathering spaces, from individual desks to entire-office meetings, and the distribution of this mix was tested and reworked multiple times to maximize the utility of the new office.

Project Details

The PSF design team and Madwell’s team worked together to carry through a vision for the space that held on to ideas of openness, natural light, clarity of circulation, and joyful interventions. Large skylights were located to highlight areas of movement and stillness. Materials were selected for their biophilic characteristics as well as their ability to soften sounds and touch points, and to provide moments of color. Because creative work happens in many different ways, the many different types of spaces allow the teams to gather in ways that reflect the complexity of the creative process. Two kitchens and adjacent tables and booths were provided, in addition to a large open area called the Solarium, with a glass wall and large-scale doors opening to the street. Desk systems built by Madwell’s in-house fabrication team provided individual spaces, and a ranges of conference rooms allow teams of all sizes to meet.

Products 

Architectural Lighting: Muuto, Axolight, Lithonia, WAC Lighting, Most Modest, Contech, Sunlite, StudioWM, Workshop, Fritz Hansen, & Tradition, Northern, Sonneman Lighting, Schoolhouse, Brayden Studio, Mark, Menu, Aculux, Kelvix, Hafele, Kuzco

Door Hardware: Emtek

Kitchen Plumbing Fixtures: Kohler, Grohe, Kraus

Kitchen Appliances: Bosch, Blomberg, Miele, Frigidaire, AKDY, Summit, Fetco, Avatoast, GrindMaster, GE, Hydrotap, Claryum

Bath Plumbing Fixtures: Kohler, Duravit, Gerberit, American Standard, Hansgrohe, Bobrick, Kraus, Mustee, Filtrine

Overall Project Results

The design process for the project began before the pandemic, but construction was underway when work stopped during the shutdown. Ideas about workplace needs and desires were put into question as work-from-home and hybrid approaches became the norm. The design and leadership teams worked together to continue considering the decisions that were made and kept an open ear to employee concerns, so that once completed the space has allowed for the flexibility and generosity needed as everyone returns to the office. PSF is grateful to see that the team has grown and has occupied the space in both planned and unpredictable ways.

Project Summary

• Collaborator: Millwright for collaboration on design and fabrication of millwork.
• Owner’s Representative: SRA Group
• Expediter: J. Callahan Consulting Inc.
• Structural Engineer: D&B Engineers and Architects P.C.
• Lighting Designer: NY Digital
• MEP Engineer: Loring Consulting Engineers Inc
• Contractor: Principal Builders Solutions Inc.

PSF Design Team

• Jonah Pregerson
• Barrett Feldman
• Mark Sofield
• Jonathan Watkins

Photography

• Zach Pontz

The post Take a Tour of Madwell’s Brooklyn Offices By PSF Projects appeared first on Work Design Magazine.

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• The Hill explores why working parents need flexible work.

The post Industry News: Culture Hacks to Improve Hybrid Work appeared first on Work Design Magazine.

The Well is a mixed-use community being developed in downtown Toronto comprised of seven buildings totaling over three million square feet of residential, retail and office space. Woodbourne secured the 33rd floor of tower G as their new Canadian corporate head office and saw this as an opportunity to create a modern, and dynamic workplace for its staff.

Woodbourne engaged Figure3 for this 9,500 square foot project which included the full fit-out of offices and supporting amenities, including the construction of new private washrooms, showers, and changing facilities. The new offices would accommodate approximately 30 staff with potential for future growth. Figure3 acted as the Interior Design consultant as well as the Consultant of Record, overseeing and coordinating the sub-consultants (MEP Engineers).

Highlighting some of the best views in Toronto, the new Woodbourne head office embodies a sophisticated feel with refined details and exquisite finishes.

As you exit the elevator lobby into the reception area, the stunning vista is revealed as a breathtaking focal point to the design. Throughout the space, warm woods and inviting materials create a distinct sophistication and timelessness, with an overall welcoming feel. Designed to evoke the culture and trusted reputation of Woodbourne, the clean architectural palette celebrates natural materials with an emphasis on the linear details, monochromatic layering, and rich accents.

Custom rugs were created and installed in the space to represent Lake Ontario, which is prominently visible along the southeast portion of the office. The addition of a welcoming fireplace in the reception area imbues a warm, residential feel that aligns perfectly with Woodbourne’s identity within the Real Estate sector.

In the servery, sleek cabinetry and soft veining throughout the kitchen island creates a sense of interest and balance against the curves of the wood seating. Tucked around the corner, a lounge space provides a serene retreat with large windows that frame the incredible view beyond. The architectural details and finishes are carried through from the reception area into the open office, where warm finishes and biophilia sits alongside cool concrete ceilings to create a sense of wellness and comfort for employees.

Project Planning

Woodbourne’s CEO and CFO were involved in the planning of the new office space, in conjunction with the construction and design teams. The c-suite wanted the office to have uninterrupted views of the stunning downtown core, which the design team gave special consideration to throughout the planning process. The c-suite were also heavily invested in the look and feel phase of the design, bringing in their own inspiration, attending furniture tours and contributing to the finish’s selection.

Project Details

The Woodbourne office was thoughtfully planned and arranged to maximize the well-being of employees, with strong consideration for light and views of the city. The majority of the closed offices are strategically positioned along the west side of the space, which faces a nearby residential tower, while the open seating is centrally located providing an abundance of natural light. The east side of the floor plate has no build up against the perimeter, a unique feature that allows people an almost entirely uninterrupted view of both the incredible exterior views but also establishes a panoramic view of the office space creating an open and inviting atmosphere.

Furthermore, the open workstations are all height-adjustable, allowing for customization tailored to individual needs, and the inclusion of live plants throughout the open office area not only adds a touch of privacy but also promotes the benefits of biophilia, creating a more harmonious work environment. These unique features, along with customizable office furnishings, represent the commitment to prioritizing the well-being of the team.

Products 

• Teknion furniture for private offices and workstations
• Miller Knoll Aeron chairs
• Miller Knoll Barcelona chairs
• Miller Knoll Eames Aluminum Meeting Chairs
• Sven Nielsen custom table for CEO
• Boardroom and Meeting tables – Prismatique
• Boardroom Credenzas with integrated fridge – Bernhardt Matera
• Raised floor – Camino

• Furniture Vendors:
  • The Collective
  • Contemporary Office Interiors
  • Kiosk Design
  • Henderson Resource Group
  • Interior Elements

Overall Project Results

Woodbourne was undergoing a rebranding as part of this move, which meant that there were added complexities to take into account. Additionally, as one of the investors in the overall development of The Well, extra consideration was given to the presentation of their new space and how they wanted to represent themselves as key stakeholders.

The CM and millworker were onboarded early in the process which was extremely beneficial as this project had a tight schedule. These actions helped to reduce construction drawing time and keep the project on track.

Project Summary

• Mechanical – TMP
• Electrical, Security, Communication, Lighting Design and AV design – Mulvey & Banani
• AV Installer – DTS
• Lighting Controls – Lutron
• Electrical Trade + IT Cabling – Symtech
• Mechanical Trade – CMS
• Millworker – Ellrod
• Construction Manager – Govan Brown

Design Team

• Tamara Rooks
• Ellie Elham Aram
• Daniela Rodrigues
• Anna-Lisa Frank

Photography

• Steve Tsai Photography

The post Step Inside Woodbourne’s Modern and Dynamic Toronto Offices By Figure3 appeared first on Work Design Magazine.

William Duff Architects’ (WDA) new office embodies the firm’s modern aesthetic and sustainable ethos. Its location, along the Folsom Street corridor in San Francisco’s colorful and ever-evolving South of Market (SOMA) neighborhood, places them amid a significant central connector to the civic and cultural destinations along the Van Ness corridor, such as the War Memorial Opera House, Davies Symphony Hall, City Hall and the Main Public Library; the downtown business district; and the Embarcadero waterfront, while giving the team critical access to convenient public transit.

WDA gave new life to a property that was originally developed in the late 1800s. The current building was constructed for industrial use, likely after the 1906 earthquake and fire (charred wood was found during the excavation for the new foundation), then, over the years, has housed a variety of businesses, from an ornamental iron shop, ice machinery shop and a printing press to a commercial flooring store.

WDA’s design vision was to highlight the building’s manufacturing past, celebrate its original spatial qualities and convey an honest expression of existing materials, while adapting it into a workplace for the times. The 7,200-square foot, two-level architecture workshop features an open floor plan, including areas for gathering, working and meeting, wellness and break rooms and a rear deck that connects with the outdoors, accessed through a large roll up door. On the exterior, a simple floor side door was removed to bring the façade back to its original symmetrical form.

Inside, a palette of black, white and accented grays provides a modern, neutral backdrop, harmonizing with the historic finishes of wood and concrete. The original building features are now revealed—sandblasted ceiling and truss structure, along with wood decking—and juxtaposed with a new statement staircase in black. Located on axis with the entry lobby and a tree-anchored central gathering area, the staircase connects to the mezzanine which overlooks Folsom Street and features a wall of windows that provide balanced daylight and views to the street below. Flanking that same axis, on the ground floor, is a conference room and the office café featuring casework made of reclaimed redwood joists salvaged from the original building. The café has an expansive glass wall, from which one can watch the dynamic street life.

Project Planning

The c-suite and staff were both involved in the planning process. In pre-planning surveys, the WDA team was asked to name the top two things that were most important to them. Updates were shared at monthly Town Hall meetings, and had job-site visits, even in the middle of COVID. The team used this project as a learning laboratory for the firm.

The transition from their old office to the new one took place during COVID. Changes were overall for the better. The new office features a separation between work and public space, giving team members more freedom to chat in the break room. There is now more layout space in the print room, more conference rooms and two private phone booths.

One of the many ideas of the WDA team was to repurpose materials as part of the adaptive reuse of the building. The existing mezzanine framing joists were reused to expand the mezzanine, and were used for cabinetry and countertops in the cafe.

Project Details

To create a workplace for occupant health and comfort and support the Well Building Standard in the design, WDA specified energy efficient cooling and heating equipment, along with a more efficient state-of-the-art MERV 13 rated mechanical system for air circulation, independent fresh air intake for all conference rooms, and improved insulation and seals at walls and openings. The new office offers a modern, hybrid-style work environment–a place for “serendipitous exchange” among staff and relaxed conversations with clients.

From a branding element, blade signs outside are part of a larger rebranding effort that the company accomplished concurrently with moving into their new home.

Products

• Workstations: Haworth
• Carpet: Patcraft
• Shades: Mechoshades
• Flooring: Da Vinci (material), Omnistone Masonary (installation)
• Break Room Cabinets: Ikea
• Break Room Countertop: Da Vinci Marble
• Conference Room Custom Table: Northwood
• Fans: Big Ass Fans
• Bathrooms: Kohler
• Shower: Best Bath Intelligent Design
• Lobby: Arcadia Store Front System
• Lighting: dweLED, Erco, WAC Lighting
• Appliances: Panasonic, KitchenAid, Bosch, Insinkerator
• Paint: Dunn Edwards, Benjamin Moore

Project Summary

Interface Engineering, the MEP consultant, worked closely with William Duff Architects to redesign the mechanical system increasing filtration and air exchange. Sixteen Five Hundred, the lighting designer and vendor, was key at illuminating the space without seeing fixtures. As a result, the bowstring truss roof is illuminated without any visible conduit or exposed wires. MG West, the furniture supplier, was great at adapting to supply chain issues and COVID requirements. Laura Grigsby Art Consulting, the art consultant and subtenant, thoughtfully curated the art program for the office. The team worked with Holmes Structures on significant efforts to reuse the existing shell and concrete in an efficient manner as possible. They reused part of the existing framing that had to be taken down, and worked with Michael Dotter, the millworker, to repurpose it into the break room millwork and tree table. Northwood created a custom walnut boardroom table designed to fit the proportions of the room and house a variety technology, including power and data ports.

Project Team

• William Duff Architects (Architect)
• Evolv (General Contractor)
• Holmes Structures (Structural Engineer)
• Interface Engineering (MEP)
• Rockridge Geotechnical (Geotechnical)
• Sixteen Five Hundred (Lighting Consultant)
• Laura Grigsby Art Consulting (Art Consultant)

Photography credit

• Matthew Millman Photography

The post Take a Tour of William Duff Architects’ New San Francisco Offices appeared first on Work Design Magazine.

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The post Industry News: Sensory Maps for Inclusive Offices appeared first on Work Design Magazine.

Illuminate opportunity. Unleash unexpected innovation. These beliefs were hallmarks of General Electric (GE) as it forged breakthrough paths around lighting technology, motor power, female empowerment and much more through the late 19^th and 20^th century.

Today, one of GE’s epicenters in Fort Wayne, Indiana, that originally opened in 1883, has been reimagined to ignite that ingenuity culture again. Once a manufacturing campus from a different era, Electric Works has become a novel mixed-use district of innovation, culture and community seamlessly integrated into the city’s downtown.

The importance of this GE site to Fort Wayne’s history cannot be overstated. At its peak in 1944, GE employed about a third of Fort Wayne’s workforce. And, in a Bloomberg story about the project, Josh Parker, CEO of Ancora (who acquired the property in 2017) said, “The emotional weight that (this) industrial complex has on this community can’t be overstated.”

In its entirety, Electric Works spans 39 acres and creates new opportunities for work, recreation, housing, retail, education and more. It is a stunning urban solution that charts a brighter future for Fort Wayne. CannonDesign proudly partnered with Ancora, Carr Workplaces and others to help design high performance workplaces and office space throughout the complex. Here are some deeper looks at key themes:

Innovation culture unleashed

There is an incredible diversity of office space possibilities infused throughout Electric Works including a coworking floor, office suites and build-to-suit offices on longer leases. The spaces make the most of the remarkably strong existing “bones” of the building, creating opportunities for wonderful juxtaposition between old and new that differentiate the complex. There is also a building equipped with conference spaces that can hold anywhere from 6 to 100 people with full-service event coordination.

This breadth of work environments allows Electric Works to empower organizations of all types and scales, from start-ups to long standing companies and even short-term project teams. Surrounding the workspaces are state-of-the-art amenities, wellness offerings and indelible energy and culture.

The design of these spaces is true to the history of GE and focuses on innovation. Just as GE sought to unlock discovery at every turn, Electric Works is reimagined to fuel entrepreneurship, foster diversity, equity and inclusion, forge connections, embrace and invite its community in…all while establishing a new center for innovation in the heart of Fort Wayne.

Innovation for generations

Given the immense scale of the Electric Works redevelopment, it is a multi-phase effort that will span years. The design team is excited the workplaces have now opened amidst other resources including a food hall, areas for galleries, farmers markets, an education lab and more. Reflecting on this project, it is exciting to see it already helping blaze new trails.

“Throughout our work with Ancora and Carr, there is this ever-present theme of history and the future. Electric Works is a testament to innovation of the past. GE reshaped our economy and society in profound ways,” said CannonDesign client leader Michelle Rotherham. “As we designed these modern solutions, we preserved Electric Works legacy and future. We asked ourselves, ‘what will people say decades from now about the solutions we are shaping right now?’ and we’re proud of the outcome.”

It all adds up to a remarkable new chapter for the storied GE campus in Fort Wayne. Electric Works is ready to redefine its purpose, and in doing so, redefine how work and ingenuity drive a community forward.

Project Planning

The goal for Electric Works was to create a dynamic district of innovation, energy and culture that respected and amplified the City of Fort Wayne’s legacy of ingenuity. This is a large project in the heart of the city and a beacon for Fort Wayne’s future, we took our role as design stewards of the city’s legacy very seriously.

The design team began with deep research around Fort Wayne’s innovation history and more specifically the impact General Electric (GE) had on the community. The company alone has contributed breakthrough inventions including the first street light system, fractional motors, and turbo super chargers for fighter planes during World War II, home appliances like the washing machine motor, kitchen garbage disposal among others – everyone has been impacted by GE and Fort Wayne’s innovation. Fort Wayne is even where copper magnet wire was invented, which is critical to generating the electromagnetic field needed to power GE appliances.

In addition to this legacy of invention, General Electric defined Fort Wayne’s business economy through the 20^th century. At its peak in 1944, GE employed about a third of Fort Wayne’s workforce. So, beyond just celebrating innovation, we also wanted to create a design that paid homage to the sheer impact this place had on its home city.

Through conversations and exploration, CannonDesign, Ancora and Carr Workplaces all realized the new design solution needed to authentically reflect Fort Wayne and create exciting opportuniti8es to bring people together to carry forward this spirit of innovation. The team identified three definitive project goals

• Connect this project to the legacy of General Electric
• Celebrate local artists and makers
• Create energized spaces that encourage interaction and innovation

Project Details

Local Art

The local art infused in Electric Works is another area through which this project absolutely shines. Our design team and Ancora partnered with Field Trip Art Advisory to identify diverse muralists and artists who called Fort Wayne, Indiana home. The art proved another way for us to celebrate Fort Wayne, innovation, and GE all through this concept of energy.

For example, muralist Matt Plett created multiple pieces in Electric Works that focus on bright color, history, and context. A specific mural in the main lounge is a modern interpretation of a photo of the GE Elex Club’s basketball team. The Elex Club was a social club for women within GE and their motto was United We Build. Matt talks openly in interviews about how this mantra influenced his work in Electric Works.

In another instance we worked with Fort Wayne’s Lyndy Bazile (Afro Plump). Lyndy took old GE blueprints and reimagined them with fresh geometric forms painted over the top. Elsewhere, local woodworker Nicolas Kramer built a series of tables from trees removed during construction. The team truly seized every detail and opportunity to celebrate Fort Wayne and this site’s history.

Color and Light

The bold use of color and the wide variety of interesting light fixtures throughout are usually the first things people notice when they are in the spaces. Lighting was an important aspect of this project, both because of GE’s Arc lighting system and the limited access to daylight the existing structure provided. The colors, our creative lighting solutions, even the Calico wall coverings create these bold bursts of energy and light throughout, especially in the social spaces.

Development Driven

This was a development-driven project that had a specific financial model that delivers just an incredible design solution. It says so much about our design team, yes, but also the client Ancora and Carr Workplaces. Every design decision held true to the design story. We never lost sight of the need to focus on innovation, energy and/or culture. It is evidence of a talented team and the power of design.

Products 

Project Summary  

• Developer: Ancora
• CoWorking Operator: Carr Workplaces
• Core and Shell Architect: Elevatus / MSKTD & Associates
• General Contractor: Weigand Construction
• MEP: CannonDesign
• Furniture: CI Select
• Custom Furniture: Big Tooth Co., Nicholas Cramer
• Art Consultant: Field Trip Art Advisory
• Artists: Matt Plett, AfroPlump 

Design Team

Photography

• Kim Rodgers

The post Step Inside Electric Works High Performance Workplace By CannonDesign appeared first on Work Design Magazine.

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