Originally a men’s clothing store converted into an office building in the early 1990s, the existing structure presented a range of challenges as the organization’s needs evolved. In 2012, a new three-story annex was added for a sister organization. A single-story vestibule, configured as a Z-shaped corridor, served as the main entry to both buildings, creating confusion for visitors. Interior walls lacked proper sound transmission control, and many spaces were underutilized due to inadequate privacy and persistent noise issues. The staff also requested a comprehensive upgrade to the AV system, as teleconferencing has become integral to daily operations.  

The client sought a reimagining of the space to address programmatic inefficiencies, improve visibility and presence, and enhance wayfinding. A new two-story vestibule with glass curtainwalls was integrated into the street wall, creating a more prominent and transparent façade along the city’s main avenue. Updated mechanical codes required increased fresh air intake, prompting the addition of a rooftop unit. This allowed the removal of the existing mechanical room in the lobby, significantly widening the area.  

The original monumental staircase, formerly supported by an exterior wall, was replaced with a lighter steel-and-glass design that integrates built-in seating along a planter edge. Kansas Post Rock limestone, embedded with native fossils, was used to introduce a vernacular element to the finishes. Reconfiguring second-floor walls allowed for more efficient space planning, while new full-height glass walls bring abundant natural light into the interior, enhancing both usability and ambiance.