The 1967 design for the Foundation Headquarters is widely recognized as one of the architectural masterpieces of the mid-twentieth century. This reputation comes primarily from the expressive way the ten-story interior atrium is enveloped on three sides by the interior offices providing a visual connection among all the building's occupants and a metaphor for the client's strong commitment towards the social good and those who devote their lives to this cause.
When revisiting the 6O-year-old lighting design, our goal was to maintain and strengthen the original architectural vision using current technology, which was unimaginable when the building was first designed. Utilizing a new lighting control system also provided far greater flexibility throughout the building as fixtures could more easily be turned on/off or dimmed.
The original design utilized exquisite detailing and use of rich, natural materials to provide both a classic and contemporary experience in the building. The new lighting scheme involved the refurbishment of historic bronze light fixtures with new lighting components and optics to enhance these fixture's performance and appearance and revealing the building finishes in a manner not fully realized with the original 1967 lighting.
The all-important views from the Atrium below were enhanced and unified by moving the circulation areas adjacent to the curtainwall. These were further enhanced with smaller aperture downlights that form a decorative necklace at each floor level surrounding the Atrium.
The renovation covered all areas of the building, brought the building into compliance with all building and energy codes and achieved LEED Platinum status.
Credits:
- Fisher Marantz Stone, Inc. - Lighting Design - Zack Zanolli
- Fisher Marantz Stone, Inc. - Lighting Design - Paul Marantz
- Fisher Marantz Stone, Inc. - Lighting Design - Hank Forrest