Grace & Hebert Architects Office

Arkel Constructors renovated the GHC office building located at 501 Government to create an open office environment that promotes collaboration and inspiration. The 16,000 SF office is protected by the  Louisiana Division of Historic Preservation, and therefore renovations to the envelope (both inside and out) were limited, which created many unforeseen design opportunities. An open work plan on the second floor was achieved by stripping the layers of lay-in ceilings, gypsum walls and column wraps that accumulated over the years concealing the original structure. The wood beams and columns were brought back to the natural finish, and the brick walls were left exposed. Both stairs were opened and customized with iron railings and polished rebar to create a connection to the first floor. Sustainable materials such as salvaged wood decking, steel and glass, in conjunction with rapidly renewable resources like bamboo and cork, helped to create a rustic industrial design palette. On the exterior, the openings received new windows, and the entrances received new glazing with zinc panels and new suspended metal canopies. The chamfered brick corner was allowed to have the only new penetration with a cantilevered steel balcony overlooking downtown.

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