Durrant Group’s new building in the Port of Dubuque showcases several sustainability technologies and is also a reused existing building. |
Architecture firm Durrant Group used the redesign of its $3.7 million headquarters building as a way to showcase the firm's creativity, design talent, and technical expertise as well as to create a laboratory for experimentation and education.
The Dubuque, Iowa, firm's stated desire was to set a high sustainability standard for both itself and its clients by recycling a 22,890-sf downtown building. Ninety-five percent of the construction materials removed from the original building by general contractor Epic Construction of Dubuque, were diverted from landfills and reused on the headquarters or in other Durrant projects. The building's systems, including the computers used by the firm, received the latest in sustainability technology. The firm is applying for LEED Platinum certification.
“Chilled water storage, photovoltaic (solar power) converters, geothermal heat exchangers—this project has some of the best sustainable technology,” said David Callan, PE, CEM, LEED AP, SVP of Environmental Systems Design, Chicago. “This is walking the walk.” —Jeffrey Yoders, Senior Associate Editor
Related Stories
High-rise Construction | May 17, 2016
Foster + Partners-designed towers approved as part of massive neighborhood redevelopment in San Francisco
One of Oceanwide Center’s buildings will be the city’s second tallest.
Architects | May 16, 2016
3 strategies to creating environments that promote workplace engagement
VOA's Pablo Quintana writes that the industry is looking for ways to increase engagement through a mix of spaces suited to employees' desire for both privacy and connection.
Office Buildings | May 9, 2016
Can you make a new building as cool as a warehouse?
CannonDesign's Robert Benson insists that the industry needs to start looking at traditional office spaces differently.
Building Tech | Apr 13, 2016
The Hyperchair gives employees access to their own personal set of climate controls
Not only can the Hyperchair reduce heating and cooling costs and maximize employee comfort, but it can help a company become more environmentally friendly, as well.
Architects | Mar 20, 2016
Ars Gratia Artis: A North Carolina architect emphasizes the value of art in its designs
Turan Duda says clients are receptive, but the art must still be integral to the building’s overall vision.
Office Buildings | Mar 16, 2016
Google releases new plans and renderings of its Mountain View campus
The original canopy design scheme is still in place, but the plans now call for it to be opaque.
Office Buildings | Mar 10, 2016
Expedia unveils design for Seattle waterfront campus
Transparency and outdoor areas will give the complex a Pacific Northwest vibe.
Office Buildings | Mar 9, 2016
CBRE: Workplace wellness on the rise
As insurance premiums and deductibles continue to rise, both employees and employers are evaluating options to improve their wellbeing, writes CBRE Healthcare Managing Director Craig Beam.
Market Data | Mar 6, 2016
Real estate execs measure success by how well they manage ‘talent,’ costs, and growth
A new CBRE survey finds more companies leaning toward “smarter” workspaces.
Office Buildings | Mar 2, 2016
HDR redesigns Twin Cities' studio to have coffee shop vibe
With open spaces, huddle rooms, and a design lab, the firm's new digs are drastically different than the old studio, which felt like working in a law office. Design Principal Mike Rodriguez highlights HDR's renovation plan.