Architect: Andre Johnson Architect, PLLC (visit website)
Location: Raleigh, NC
100 Word Description: The Solferino North development is a revitalization of a challenging site and existing building. The property is located in a flood plain, traffic is difficult and the existing building has and inefficient building systems. The property has great appeal because of the location to current and proposed developments. The owner desired that the facility be transformed to reflect the future use of the building. The proposed renovation will change the “skin” of the building, replace the outdated systems, update the landscape and site design and improve the safety of the occupants with increased lighting and revised traffic flow.
Architect’s Statement: The design of the proposed renovation includes the complete demolition of the existing exterior. The design approach focused on the idea of transformation. This idea of transformation is expressed in the building’s new “skin” comprised of curtain wall and glass. The glass was developed to create a facade that would transform as based upon sun angle and field of view of the pedestrian. The glass uses an acid etched vertical linear pattern to create visual interest. The acid etching changes based on the elevation and sun exposure. The result is what appears to be a solid glass block from a distance, but when approaching and close to the building, the vertical linear pattern changes as you view the building. The material pallette is simple with curtainwall and glass, white metal panel with a semi gloss finish. Voids are “cut” out of the glass block at specific program areas. What appears to be random “cuts” into the buildings facade, relate to public or important spaces within the building. The building program solution creates a public zone on the ground level, with dental specialty areas on subsequent floors. The upper floor includes instructional and classroom areas that support the denal specialists. The plan design focuses on natural light and openness where possible. Private rooms have frosted glass that obscure activities within but allow light to filter through, thus continuing with the thought of transformation.
Type of Construction: The existing building structure will remain intact. Several structural imprvements will need to occur to meet current code requirements. The current construction is a steel super structure with composite floor systems and roof.
