BNIM Des Moines Office
Collaborative office environment designed to accommodate an expanding architectural practice
Information
This collaborative office environment was designed to accommodate BNIM’s expanding architectural practice in an existing street level urban office building located in the Central Business District of Des Moines, Iowa. The organization of the spaces, the communal tack wall and open conferencing areas provide flexibility and enable the sharing of ideas and concepts. Designed initially to provide work areas for 14 individuals, the space can also comfortably accommodate 18 work areas for future growth. There are few walls subdividing the space which provides a volumetric environment that can be adapted and changed as working methodologies change over time. Collaboration and communal space is also provided at each work area, at the tack wall, in open conference rooms, and in the storage and coffee area.
Impact + Innovation
As a contribution to the City, the office provides a renewed sense of life and activity to a previously dormant intersection. The reuse of existing office space that had been vacant for 10 years contributed to the sustainable characteristics of the design. Located near bus routes and within walking/biking distance of numerous employee homes, the office’s locale also helps reduce the burning of fossil fuels and carbon contributions. As tenants and strong supporters of responsible lifestyles, BNIM convinced the existing building owners to provide showers for bikers and runners in a remodeled common restroom facility. This space reflects BNIM’s culture by being responsible in the use of materials and resources, maximizing the use of daylighting and providing a collaborative studio infrastructure that promotes creativity, excellence, teaching, and learning.
Process
BNIM’s Studio North Team collaborated closely with partners from each of BNIM’s studios to identify locations that embody our values. The team sought places that would provide a flexible work environment with ample light and views while also presenting an opportunity to revitalize and activate the Des Moines Central Business District. Essential to our process was working in conjunction with the building owner, who played a pivotal role as a supportive team member. This collaboration helped fulfill BNIM’s space requirements and address the owner’s goal of rejuvenating the building, attracting future tenants, and solidifying its importance within the City.
People
Team
- Rod Kruse
- Carey Nagle
- Jonathan Ramsey
- Joshua Harrold
- Lara Stucki
- Matthew Porreca
- Elif Tinney
- Matt Winter
- Mellissa Leyendecker
- Kimberly Hickson
- Kathy Achelpohl
- Miranda Edie
- Christianne Jordan
Client
BNIM
Media
Awards
The Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture & Design & The European Centre for Architecture Art
The American Architecture Award
2013
IIDA Mid America
Mid-America Design Awards – Silver Award, Renovation & Restoration
2013
American Institute of Architects (AIA)
National AIA Institute Honor Award for Interior Architecture
2013
AIA Iowa
Merit Award of Excellence
2012
AIA Central States Region
Honor Award, Excellence in Interiors
2012
