Office and Manufacturing Building

The project was designed for a young entrepreneur who wanted a facility that would accommodate his growing business. His company is a leading designer and manufacturer of specialty hoses. Application driven by a diverse world market, the company develops innovative products that meet the rigid technical requirements of the food and plastics industries.

The client's goal was to provide a nice environment for his employees and to attract clients. The image the building had to convey was that of an established, international, cost conscious company. Located in an industrial park in a small Connecticut town, it was important that the building fit into the landscape.

Through the collaboration of the architect, client, and builder, fresh ways to use common, inexpensive materials were developed. Throughout the design process, the building was carefully stripped down to its essential, functional elements. Concrete block was used as it was affordable, had a sense of permanence, and helped to visually tie the building to the rocky site. Windows were carved into the masonry wall to provide light to offices for visiting sales people. Glass block was used to provide natural light to the warehouse while maintaining security of inventory.

The second floor was left open to the surrounding forest, giving one a feeling of being in the treetops. The overhangs, for shading and rain protection, are built of the exposed ends of the roof structure with galvanized steel tie-down straps, required for wind uplift.