A lot of our new projects are renovations or adaptive reuse of existing environments. When planning for these opportunities our first question is always, “If this was our money, how would we spend it?”
Designers launching these types of projects too often take the position, “out with the old and in with the new”. But that’s not always the most prudent way to shepherd our client’s money… or to act environmentally responsible.
Taking a property and infusing it with new life can involve major structural and architectural efforts or, in the absence of large budgets and access to financing, more pragmatic solutions.
GNU has a long history of working with owners and managers to bring projects current. We’ve helped make retail, commercial, residential, education, medical and hospitality properties more attractive and relevant. In all cases the common denominator in any renovation or re-use initiative is to start by deciding what stays and what goes.
In the re-imaging process, anything that can be preserved and reused means resources can be maximized. Money can be saved and the impact on the environment can be minimized.
Three recent projects offer a demonstration of what is possible when one is committed to preserving what’s already there.
^ CADENCE
RMW Architecture & Interiors tapped GNU to assist in upgrading Cadence’s campus-wide sign program. Beyond a new 5 story headquarters building being developed, Cadence had recently completed a Brand Identity change that needed to be reflected within the sign program that brought identity to the site and assisted both vehicular traffic as well as pedestrian traffic navigating across the campus. Early on in the planning process GNU identified several of the main monument IDs as being ideal to reuse rather than replace – saving Cadence a considerable amount of money in demo, fabrication and installation costs.
^ BRIDGEPOINT PARKWAY
GNU Group worked with Jones Lange LaSalle to assist in re-branding the former Siebel Systems corporate campus. The corporate branded exterior sign system was updated to a multi-tenant system for the revamped Bridgepointe Parkway. Cost-efficiency was key by retrofitting the existing structures for this three-building campus. All planning and turnkey execution, including city work and interior system changeover for lobby directory and suite tenant signs, was also included in the scope of work.
^ HACIENDA LAKES
The GNU Group worked with HARSCH Investment Properties to redevelope and strengthen the identification and wayfinding experience for this multiple entry/address property located in Pleasanton. A softer less corporate look and feel was established by the identity and color palette selection. The GNU Group also took a cost-sensitive approach in working with existing concrete support structures, refraining from having to demo and ultimately saving HARSCH tens of thousands of dollars.
Have you been involved with the re-imaging or upgrade of a corporate campus or office property? Have you been really resourceful with your client’s dollars and proud of it? If so, tell us about how you approached your assignment, we’d enjoy hearing about it.
