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BNIM Kansas City Office

Revitalization of an iconic 1970s structure into a modern work environment focused on human-purposed design

Information

Location Kansas City, Missouri
Size 21,130 SF
Completion 2017
Services Interiors
Project Type Corporate

The interior renovation of 2460 Pershing — BNIM’s Kansas City office headquarters — revitalized the iconic 1970s structure into a modern work environment that is a replicable model for transformative workplace design. Generous views to the outdoors and copious amenities contribute to an overall happier, healthier environment. Workspaces were designed with collaboration and creativity in mind. A large central avenue space called the “Boulevard” spans two studio zones, where teams can meet and utilize various forms of technology to work collaboratively on projects. A total of 15 conference rooms provide spaces for all needs, from individual work zones to a maker space for prototyping and testing models under a variety of lighting conditions.

Impact + Innovation

When BNIM moved into its new space in 2460 Pershing, there was a palpable change in the way our studios worked. More collaboration, interaction, and engagement among our staff translated into improved productivity for our firm. Additionally, 2460 Pershing helped attract new talent to the firm, and applications from new architecture graduates more than doubled, from 51 in 2016 to 105 in 2017. Much of the transformative renovation involved exposing the details and bones of the existing structure and integrating features of the building’s past with its new, modern, and functional form. The ceilings are open, revealing the HVAC systems and beams, and a polished concrete floor minimizes the environmental impact of installing new materials. These strategies aligned with Crown Center’s environmental commitment, completing initial 2015 goals of achieving 39% energy reduction, 25% water reduction and 61% waste reduction.

People

Team

Anastasia Huggins
Ronald Grotenhuis

Client

Crown Center

This is a very well-done project. Most standard work spaces aren’t very rewarding, but these really are. And the stair is beautiful. The views that are framed are well-considered.

2016 AIA Kansas City, Design Awards Jury Comment

The new environment has yielded almost immediate gains in productivity and revenue for BNIM, which they attribute to better communication and a healthier, more pleasing environment. According to the firm, net revenue per employee increased by 7 percent the first year after their move in January 2017. Net revenue per technical staff member improved by 9 percent. The efficiency of BNIM’s work hours improved too, as reflected in a 14 percent increase in net revenue per direct labor hour. Applications from new architecture graduates more than doubled, from 51 in 2016 to 105 in 2017.

Charles Linn, FAIA, for Architectural Record