Minimal linear fluorescent pendants provide general lighting between the cutouts. The pendants and coves are also digitally addressable so that illuminance levels and control zones can be easily reconfigured as needs and preferences change.
Confidential Trading Company
Chicago, IL
A backdrop of serene and organic architecture sweeps thru this 75,000 SF trading office, offsetting a technology-fueled and high-pressure workday. The design team’s goal was to re-think the standards and aesthetics of corporate architecture and to allow nature-inspired elements to establish a visual flow.
A careful interweaving of lighting throughout these elements supports the client’s goal of creating an environment that invests in their employees’ well-being. Lounge, dining, and fitness amenities round out the office areas and provide employees with a respite from their busy day.
On the trading floor, tapered cladding disguises structural columns that rise into glowing stretched fabric cutouts. A maple-veneered ceiling undulates through the space, highlighted by integrated fluorescent coves. A digitally addressable T5 fluorescent system was chosen to backlight the glowing cutouts since it offered the best energy efficiency and cost effectiveness when evaluated against all other sources. Each ballast above the fabric is individually addressed and provides lamp/ballast monitoring to the maintenance staff.
A textured limestone wall running through the reception area and Zen Garden is grazed by a segmented ceramic metal halide border strip concealed above the floating ceiling while a continuous fluorescent cove runs the entire length of the core wall.
The Boardroom’s centerpiece is a large-scale fluorescent pendant featuring curves that carry on the organic theme. Halogen adjustable downlights are carefully arranged around the pendant to provide light to the table for dimmed A/V settings. Recessed wallwashers provide perimeter illumination.
Project Details
Service
Architect
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Perkins & Will
Recognition
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IES Illumination Design Award of Merit, 2012
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Illumni Gold Infinity Award - Workplace Lighting, 2012
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GE Edison Award of Merit, 2011
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Contract Design interiors Award: Large Office, 2012
