The Process of Design: Westshore City Center
Westshore City Center, previously known as the Austin Center, is being completely renovated into a modern, walkable campus full of office spaces, common meeting areas, and restaurants. The lobbies were one of the first phases in the renovation and we were thrilled to be selected as the design team for these spaces. Our mission, to take these dated office building entries and create unique, inviting and hip environments with a cohesive design sense from building to building.
Define
Conceptual design begins with research and client interviews. We review the vision for the space, inspiration images and functionality to make sure that the daily interactions in the space are taken into account. Preliminary color schemes are identified and the general aesthetic and design concept is outlined for client feedback.
For this project our design team created mood boards that helped communicate the design intent to make sure we are on the right track. The fun part about presenting this part of the project was that the staff in neighboring offices were pulled into the conference room to vote on the direction the design was taking. Sometimes this can be dangerous (the whole too many cooks in the kitchen theory), but the owners and employees were pretty consistent in their response to the ideas for the spaces we presented. They loved the concept!
Design
When you think about a lobby entry to an office building, the old design embodied everything that was average and expected. The client directive was that the design should be alluring and memorable. They wanted to incorporate brand colors (blues) in a subtle way and also reference the history of the location within the city, as well as the importance of the original development in the area.
Adding texture and materials to drywall hallways was a great way to create a unique and inviting design. The team designed custom millwork panels with abstract geometric patterns to create visual interest in the main entrance.
Other material selections for the adjacent hallways included decorative porcelain tile and textured wallpaper.
We presented the owners with samples of the materials selections. Providing tangible samples to feel and touch is just as important as the renderings we use to demonstrate how the materials are applied. When the materials are approved, the design comes to life.
The business park dates back to the 1960s and is well known in the Tampa area. Another feature wall, which can be seen once visitors reach the elevator, displays a custom wallpaper mural showing images of the area from 1965.
Develop
When designing a commercial project, understanding code is crucial. Safety details, emergency lighting, non-slip flooring, and clearance requirements were important details to maintain safe work environments for future tenants.
Our team specializes in fully detailed Construction Documents and include flooring, lighting, door, and finish schedules. We also include detail drawings for specific elements such as how the base is to meet the floor, which allows the contractor to install the detail elements of the design with clarity. Elevations showing location of materials and exact millwork measurement helped to ensure the design intent was followed all the way through to completion.
Site visits throughout construction to make sure all questions were answered and to ensure the design comes to life perfectly.
Repeat (kind of)
Following the successful transformation of the initial concept lobby, the design team moved on to create unique designs for the other lobby entrances within the office park. Each lobby is individualized and yet the overall design concepts are cohesive. Updated finishes. Stylish materials. Beautiful feature walls and chic lighting.
In contrast to the cool blue and grey tones, we wanted to add a natural element in the second feature wall. Alexia, the lead designer for this project, meticulously planned out this detailed geometric design with a modern spin. When a client walks through the entry doors, it is the first thing they see, drawing people into the space and toward the elevator and wayfinding signs!
