Due to the project’s prominent location on the riverfront and Markham Street, as well as the desire for technological and functional expression, the design presented a unique challenge. The solution is a modern building that is zoned to allow pedestrians to virtually see through the entire building from the street, making activities in the building fully open to the public.
The glass enclosed building wing on Markham maintains the street edge and houses the meeting rooms and offices of the Chamber. The more solid wing on Main Street houses the more light sensitive functions of the Technology Center, while shielding the harsh edge of the Main Street Bridge. The gentle glass curve of the lobby allows views for all workers and visitors to the river and opens into a courtyard allowing exterior and interior functions.
