High Performing Buildings - Spring 2008 - (Page 16) titanium panels on the interior of the building show fingerprints, this is easily maintained with mild soap and water. The natural materials complement the Pacific Northwest character of the building and form a strong connection to its surroundings. Flexible design also created a building that will be useful for a long time. The city hall’s office tower has a small floor plate. To maximize usable space, a single large contiguous office area was created by placing the circulation core to one side with the remaining space being column-free. An underfloor air-distribution system contrib- utes to the flexibility of the layout and the easy distribution of wiring, with the added benefits of reduced energy use and improved user comfort. The tower floors originally were envisioned as open office space that would be easy to reconfigure as functions changed. A late change in the layout of the second floor required the substitution of an open space for the support staff with nine council member offices. As a result, this floor of the tower is completely subdivided with office suites. The introduction of sidelights, interior windows and glass panels at the tops of walls brings light and views into interior spaces. An equally important aspect to creating a flexible and sustainable building is carefully attenuating the size of spaces with respect to their programmed functions. When successful, the right-sizing of spaces makes them suitable for multiple purposes but not larger than needed. This was accomplished in the building’s central meeting room, the council chamber. Designed to accommodate large public proceedings of up to 140 people, the room includes a fixed conference table in Translucent vertical glass fins catch and reflect late afternoon light into the building. 16 HIGH PERFORMING BUILDINGS Spring 2008
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