Pierce County Environmental Services Building
University Place, Washington

The Pierce County Environmental Services Building is located on the 900+ acre Chambers Creek Properties. The Environmental Services Building is the first significant project to be built within the guidelines of the 50-year Chambers Creek Properties Master Plan, setting the tone for future development on the large site.

The introduction of natural light, interior vegetation and views to the exterior present a more humane work environment. Space planning was designed according to a European office model, where no desk is more than 30 feet to a window.

Enclosed office pods containing the individual offices and conference rooms slash through the open office "tail" of the building and define the various departments while providing visual transparency through the structure. These office pods serve as the primary structure allowing the office interior to be virtually column-free. They also admit natural light, provide locations for interior planters, and are instrumental in the mechanical system design.

A raised floor air distribution system reduces the size and energy consumption of the mechanical system, improves indoor air quality, provides for future flexibility, and gives individuals direct control of their immediate environment.

The local community was very active in the development of the Chambers Creek Properties Master Plan as well as in the development of this project. The Master Plan received an American Planning Association Award for public involvement.

The owner partnered with various nonprofit organizations to promote interaction with the local community rather than for any economic benefit.

This project received the 2004 National AIA Top Ten Green Award and the 2003 AIA Washington Council Civic Design Merit Award.

> Polson Building

 

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