Downtown Anchorage’s former Key Bank Plaza Building will be modernized and expanded into a sleek, glacier-inspired office building, courtesy of Perkins&Will.
The nine-story building was originally built in 1972 at 601 W 5th Avenue. The building required extensive structural repairs as a result of a 7.1 magnitude earthquake in November 2018 and, as such, will receive much-needed seismic reinforcements as part of the redesign. On the interior, all mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems will be replaced, a new stair tower will be built, and modern elevators and a freight elevator will be installed.
The exterior is also set to undergo substantial work that pays homage to Alaska’s natural wonders. This includes a 40,000-sf sloped facade that reconfigures the building to resemble a glacier, replacing the precast concrete cladding with floor-to-ceiling windows.
To account for dark, snowy winters, radiant heating, six new skylights, and drought-tolerant native plants have been incorporated into the project’s master plan. Due to the site’s potential for substantial pedestrian activity, onsite landscape and hardscape improvements have become a top priority for the design team.
The building’s owners hope the project will reinvigorate Anchorage’s downtown area, which has not seen any new construction for the past 10 years. The $30 million-project is slated for completion in 2022.
Related Stories
| May 24, 2018
Accelerate Live! talk: Security and the built environment: Insights from an embassy designer
In this 15-minute talk at BD+C’s Accelerate Live! conference (May 10, 2018, Chicago), embassy designer Tom Jacobs explores ways that provide the needed protection while keeping intact the representational and inspirational qualities of a design.
Office Buildings | May 22, 2018
AAA headquarters embodies a road trip atmosphere
HGA designed the space.
Office Buildings | May 22, 2018
Where fun follows function: New study reemphasizes the value of play in the workplace
Perkins Eastman recommends personalization, access and “linkages,” and variety as design criteria.
Office Buildings | Apr 25, 2018
Cardiff is home to the new BBC Cymru Wales headquarters
Foster + Partners designed the building.
Office Buildings | Apr 23, 2018
Activity-based design takes precedence in new office projects
The latest report by Ted Moudis Associates also finds more space being allocated for amenities and wellness.
Office Buildings | Apr 19, 2018
From fitness to bowling alleys: How commercial office buildings are differentiating themselves through amenities
Here are five ways that amenities can help developers and building owners attract and secure tenants by appealing to their inhabitants.
Office Buildings | Mar 21, 2018
Yeti’s new global headquarters evokes the outdoors
Gensler designed the new HQ.
Office Buildings | Mar 19, 2018
A cost guide to office fit-outs provides comparisons for 59 markets
The new JLL report also finds landlords offering more generous tenant improvement allowances.
Movers+Shapers | Mar 19, 2018
Movers + Shapers: Tech takeover
From Chicago to Charlotte, the tech boom is transforming urban real estate markets and redefining workplace design.
Office Buildings | Mar 19, 2018
The new office has roots in retail
How retail’s focus on brand authenticity, heritage and education are transforming workplace design.
