2008 FAB AWARD – Sustainable Design

SmithGroup

Bowman and Brooke LLP Headquarters

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A nationally renowned litigation firm, Bowman and Brooke LLP set a new standard in law office design. With their new Minneapolis headquarters, they became the first law firm in Minnesota to achieve LEED-CI certification, and the first nationally located outside of California. The solution successfully balances sustainable strategies in a design that expresses the values and personality of the firm. Sustainability was not an afterthought that was applied after other design drivers, but was integral to the design intent and process from the start. The project defines Fresh, Artistic, Brilliant throughout its design and execution.

The primary design challenge was offering solutions to promote sustainability and an open, collaborative environment in a business practice requiring privacy, security of information; one that traditionally incorporates offices along the entire exterior perimeter. To address the need for daylight, the floor plan is organized to provide corridors with exterior views, and the use of large expanses of interior glazing transfers natural light to interior zones. The balance between privacy and an open environment is achieved with office sidelights and common areas designed to support chance encounters or quick, impromptu meetings – the stair is wide enough to walk side-by-side with a colleague without conflict with oncoming traffic, and informal seating areas are located throughout the office.

The solution reflects Bowman and Brooke’s focus on their people. It demonstrates a sophisticated use of space and finishes that provides a quality workplace experience for staff at all levels in a way that supports community and environmental stewardship throughout.

Innovation came in many forms throughout the design process, but particularly in the sustainable strategies. It was our priority throughout the process, from site selection, to design, and through the construction process, to implement sustainable principles through construction methods, material selections, and building systems throughout the space.

DESIGN TEAM & SPECIAL CONTRIBUTORS

Rebecca Nolan, AIA, IIDA, LEED AP Principal in Charge
Michael Nolan, AIA Project Manager
Eric Lagerquist, AIA, LEED AP Project Architect
Kim Klingeisen, CID, LEED AP Project Designer
Rodrigo Manriquez Lighting Designer

Greiner Construction General Contractor
Michaud, Cooley, Erickson MEP Engineering
Meyer, Borgman, and Johnson Structural Engineering
Artifex Millwork
Constantine Carpet
Eco Surfaces Rubber Flooring
Knoll System Furniture
Northwestern Stone
Parameters Dealer

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