Crescent Building

This repeat client engaged Design Initiative to renovate an existing two-story office building for his business. The goal of the first phase of the project was to transform an ordinary office interior into a unique place of work on a modest budget. The dark interior conference room and hallways serving the perimeter offices were replaced with a centralized open common area and a new conference room. A plywood-clad ceiling plane unites the open gathering area with a new glass enclosed conference room. Updated finishes brighten the interior spaces and portions of the existing ceilings were removed to reveal the roof structure and further express the wood ceiling.

The second phase of focused on the renovation of front facade. The goal was to create a new façade that complimented the interior work while addressing water infiltration issues of the existing masonry veneer. Initially, the design team focused on developing a rainscreen solution but the costs exceeded the Owner’s budget. With input from the contractor, a stucco veneer was chosen for its durability, cost and aesthetic characteristics. A new steel and plexiglass cantilevered steel canopy signifies entry. Charred cypress cladding frames the existing glass entry doors. Large scale building signage identifies the address and becomes part of the new façade composition. LED lighting is used both on the interior recessed fixtures and the exterior sconces for its energy savings and durability.