The design of any building is the product of multiple influences, the owner and his program, climate, regulatory agencies, and budget to name a few. The dominant influence on the design of this facility was a unique site and it#s proximity to a major interstate highway.

A former borrow pit, the half moon shaped site is carved into a hillside, creating a two level grade change. The lower level directly faces the interstate offering a signature #Billboard# exposure opportunity. The building is literally tucked into the crescent, giving the unique appearance that the site was designed for the building.

In addition to the obvious drama created by the placement of the building, the grade change at the rear of the site allowed for a pedestrian bridge access from the second floor to the balance of the site. This allows for extremely convenient circulation for employees located in other adjacent corporate facilities.

As a corporate headquarters, the owners desired both the interior and exterior of the facility to reflect a vibrant, innovating image yet presented in a somewhat restrained manner. This design subtlety was achieved in both cases.

The faceted glass curtainwall is interpreted by the eye as a gently curving mirror and is instantly recognizable from the highway. The primary entrance and the major meeting spaces are positioned in this area of the building#s four floors. Complementing the blue toned glass is a pink toned French limestone facade. The placement of the building also allows for service vehicles and covered parking to exist virtually site unseen.

The entrance to the building is seamlessly incorporated into the glass curtainwall and is enhanced by the ICI icon visible from the outside and inside. Upon entering, the client#s desired image is revealed by a dynamic, yet subtle mixture, of chrome and glass with natural wood, limestone and marble.

This image is maintained and enhanced by a three-story atrium ringed in rich greenery.

The design of this building has achieved acclaim because it has captured the image desired by the owner while simultaneously satisfying the programmatic requirement of both the building specifics and the overall site facilities. It is a testament to a job well done by the Owner, Architect and Construction Manager.

Manufacturers/Suppliers
DIV 07: EPDM: Carlisle SynTec; EIFS: Dryvit. 
DIV 08: Glass: Pilkington North America; Metal Windows, Curtainwall: Kawneer; Hardware: Accurate Lock & Hardware; Wood Doors: Algoma Hardwoods.
DIV 09: Carpet: Interface; VCT: Mannington; Drywall: Georgia Pacific.