Location:  Phoenix, AZ
Style:  Old World
In 2007 we were assigned the renovation of a 1980’s building that would become the new home of the Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust.  The 17,000 sq. ft., 2-story building had a myriad of narrow hallways, small interior offices, low ceilings and dated finishes. The challenge was to design a new open plan for 2 levels, increase light exposure and create easy access from the common areas to offices.  The tall, arched windows surrounding the building and the Spanish influence of the exterior façade were features that drove the direction of the new plan.  An entry colonnade was designed with arches, groin vaults and additional columns defined entries into the Boardroom and to the second floor. Hard-lid and coffered ceilings were built in the common areas and Venetian finishes were used on entry walls and ceiling vaults to give an aged plaster appearance.  The stone floors and stair risers were decorated with custom etched patterns and Emperador marble bordered the travertine floor patterns.  By request, the client’s existing furniture, including built-in library bookcases, conference tables and office desks would be incorporated into the new scheme.  There was need for a catering kitchen and an assembly room for seminars, luncheons and banquets with movable tables, stacking chairs and access to kitchen.  The offices were designed to accept all the existing furniture from the prior location and new pieces were ordered to fill other offices.  Although the stylized location is reminiscent of a historic site, the expectation of state-of-the-art technology and optimum function was not compromised.  The transition from the previous traditional office to an environment specific with Spanish styling was successful and appreciated by the client.