A leader in window treatment design and manufacturing for 80 years, this window manufacturer’s 1964-facility was outdated, undersized, and, ironically, lacked windows. An extensive renovation of both the interior and exterior of the corporate office included a conversion of 8,600 square feet of shop floor into a mix of open and private offices, new welcoming focal-point lobby, and a new training facility, breakroom, and fitness center.

The renovation’s design is inspired by the building’s mid-century aesthetic with a clean, contemporary design and composition that embraces natural light and connects employees to the outdoors and to their circadian rhythms. Exterior solid walls were replaced with full-height energy efficient windows, and interior walls were minimized to promote views to the outdoors. Private offices were moved off exterior walls in favor of shared amenities and other open collaborative spaces to allow for more equitable access to light and views. Multiple skylights were inserted in the centralized open office areas and the former factory turned office space to ensure provide abundant daylight.

The most sustainable concept informing the design is perhaps the decision to renovate and reuse their existing facility. The decision to reuse rather than build new saved this project approximately 7-times the amount of embodied carbon. A new building envelope, all new mechanical and electrical systems and LED’s that operate in concert with available daylighting all work together to dramatically reduced operational carbon (energy use) by improving building performance.

The building is also more resilient and easily adapted post-renovation. The former disjointed office space is now open and flexible, linked together by clearly defined circulation routes and simplified wayfinding. The interior finishes and amenities were updated to include multiple new conference and teaming rooms in addition to an on-site fitness center and new employee breakroom that encourages relaxation and gathering with a variety of seating for eating or informal meetings. A new cool color palette balanced with warm wood accents and bright orange color reflects and refracts the natural light now pouring into the spaces. Timeless furniture honors the mid-century aesthetic.

The result is a complete renovation that reinforces the company’s brand and serves as a backdrop to display and demonstrate window products and brands they represent.