663 South Cooper
Project site: Previously developed land
Building program type(s): Office – 10,000 sf
Series of axonometric drawings showing the how the Framework for Design Excellence is incorporated into the plan and site of the building. Image: archimania
The notion of converting a 1957 building and site into a net-zero energy, net-zero carbon project with progressive design hallmarks of resilience, accessibility, and wellness appears mythical. Developers cite cost and maintenance as the largest obstacles. Integrated design strategies help make aggressive goals more accessible, as tactics used within the design support one another in achieving a more comprehensive approach. Sustainability goals were held alongside goals of sound design, affordability, and research—forcing an integrated approach.
As an example, the
conversion of a central parking lot to a common courtyard linked to interior
building spaces is an integration of urban, landscape, and interior strategies.
The courtyard provides more permeable ground area for the site, a place to
plant trees for the benefit of the site and occupants, a location for the
geothermal field to support the buildings, an infiltration field to improve
stormwater management, and an outdoor space for occupants to gather, work, and play. Having these assets located in the
same place increases the value of buildings and site. Material palette is
intentionally simple to be inclusive. White, black, glass, and plywood interiors allow existing
terrazzo floors to be uniquely highlighted and many affordable, off-the-shelf products to instantly align
with overall design.
Interior planning and
sectional design give individual and collective work
spaces access to multiple sources of daylight, reimagining existing
openings while adding others for urban connectivity. A “core zone” for systems
and utilities allows both current and future partition configurations to be
affordable and simple. Millwork design using plywood, ethically sourced wood
products, and careful selection of
materials creates specific working and collaborative spaces providing
flexibility for storage, people, maintenance, and building systems. Palette and
structure of the systems are easily replicated to maintain warmth over time and
with wear while remaining natural, neutral,
and durable.
