project team
midtown renaissance group
obelisk engineering
robert thompson
cec infrastructure solutions
30a home

Canaan’s new 16,000 sf office is located within the second and third floors of the historic Buick Motor Company building, constructed in 1926 in the Automobile Alley Historic District. The space includes exposed concrete columns, beams, and brick walls. The 3rd floor was connected to the 2nd floor with an internal stair, using historic grating as guardrails. The client’s IT needs were extensive, necessitating large pathways to link every space to the robust server room.

The triangular arrangement provides a dynamic flow within the space while directing internal views. A feature wall provides a pathway for copious amounts of mechanical and electrical systems, exposing the historic structure/walls while providing a clean and uncluttered space. The feature wall is clad in frosted polycarbonate panels with reclaimed metal grating overlaid to add depth. Internal lighting was utilized to radiate light through the polycarbonate panels and enhance the grating. Perimeter millwork conceals the HVAC system. Glass walls and interior clerestories maximize natural light deep into the space. Track lights provide a simple lighting system to feature art and illuminate task surfaces.

The color palette is simple and clean to showcase the historic structure. A raised access floor provides a reconfigurable layout in the War Room. Sliding clear polycarbonate doors highlight the steel framing while providing privacy within individual offices. A roof deck, surrounded by a stainless steel drink rail, is created from ipe pavers and planters, with a steel and ipe equipment screen.

photo
© joseph mills