Design Solutions - Summer 2008 - (Page 38) Lathrop & Gage Conference Center Well known for customer service, Lathrop & Gage offers the depth and strength of a national firm with the hands-on service, management style and aggressive client service of a smaller firm. The firm recently embarked upon a firm-wide remodeling project to update space it has occupied in a downtown building for many years. Part of the project was the creation of a conference center, occupying one of the firm’s nine floors. The conference center was the focus of a lease extension which allows the firm to remain in its headquarters building for an additional 15 years. Commissioned to design the new conference center was the architectural firm of 360º Architecture of Kansas 38 DESIGN SOLUTIONS City. Providing the custom architectural woodwork for the project was AWI member firm RCS Millwork, L.C., located in Ankeny, Iowa. The 18,500 square foot project consolidated the law firm’s main reception and client meeting areas into a state-of-the-art conference center. Primary design objectives and considerations were to create a dramatic yet functional space, showcasing the firm’s commitment to leadership and quality, and providing it with a competitive edge in its recruitment and retention of top legal talent. Fa b u l o u s V i e w Taking advantage of its unique 360-degree vista of downtown Kansas City, the design of Lathrop & Gage’s conference center creates an inspiring and memorable experience for everyone who uses it. Looking out along the entire west-facing façade of the building, the reception lobby acts as the space’s dramatic front door. The center also functions as a premium spot for community functions and special events. “Throughout the center, the design is articulated by a series of dramatic Rosewood and stone walls,” explains Peter Sloan, Jr., AIA, principal of 360º Architecture. “These elements serve as a backdrop to the panoramic views and organize all of the meeting spaces along the exterior of the conference center.” The meeting spaces, which include caucus rooms, a multi-purpose facility I summer 2008
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