Setting a higher standard for both design sustainability and appealing user-centric office design while preserving the charm and character of a handsome, century-old structure, was the dual objective for this corporate headquarters in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Originally built in 1904, the Blanche Kellogg building is situated in the heart of the reawakening historical Santurce sector in San Juan.
First Award | RTFSA 2016 Awards
Category: Interior Corporate (Built)
Participant Name: Carla Joan Gonzalez
Country: Puerto Rico
Retrofitted to meet the strict environmental standards established by the U.S. Green Building Council, the new offices are slated for LEED CI Platinum® certification: the first office of its kind in Latin America.
Every space along the second level of this former girls’ school, originally founded by the sister of corn flake pioneer, W.K. Kellogg, has been thoughtfully re-imagined with contemporary sustainable practices in mind. Solatube tubular daylight devices (TDDs) allow for ‘daylight harvesting’: permitting the transferal of sunlight from the outside in—bathing the entire office (even the windowless interiors) with natural light. Inverter air conditioners provide high-efficiency, low-noise, and environmentally-friendly cooling. Advanced Lutron technology employs interconnected daylight sensors, dimmers, occupancy sensors, and ballast-controlled, electrical power management systems to conserve energy while maintaining optimal working conditions throughout the premises.
The net result is a healthier environment, lower operating costs, maximum water and energy conservation, waste minimization, and a significant reduction of the firm’s carbon footprint.
Neutral colors predominate: creating a blank canvas against which the actual work of the firm is allowed to shine. Walls are light gray, almost white. Custom millwork is charcoal. Conference tables are white. Black and white photography printed on canvas capture details of some of the firm’s work.
Occasional pops of color turn up in expected places such as the carpet tile and fabric seating—and tend to be bold and green: a fitting metaphor for the work of this dynamic group.
Gone are the days when “green” meant you had to sacrifice aesthetic. This office space not only exceeds environmental standards, it delivers an elegant solution that simultaneously wows its visitors and allows the client to feel at home.
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