Transforming traditional office space to a sophisticated workplace with collaboration at the center
Constructing within an Occupied Office Building
As this interior renovation was being conducted on the ninth floor of an existing office building, careful coordination was paramount to minimizing disruption to adjacent tenants. The Choate project team worked closely with the building manager and tenants, ensuring daily communication about upcoming construction activities. This proactive approach helped maintain a harmonious environment, with all parties remaining well informed about the project’s progress and timeline.
When high-noise activities were required, the team scheduled these tasks after hours or over the weekend to avoid disturbing the other office tenants. Through this sensitivity to the environment and surroundings, Choate created and maintained positive relationships with the office tenants throughout construction.
Hear from the project team themselves as they speak to the intricacies and considerations of working in an occupied space:
Tight Deadline, Proactive Approach
Working with a tight deadline and aggressive schedule, the project team took the initiative to permit and price the demolition portion early, allowing work to commence while design documents were still being finalized. This proactive approach ensured the existing office space was completely cleaned out, setting the stage for a smooth transition once the design documents for the new space were ready.
Throughout the process, Choate worked with the design team to adeptly manage changes and revisions that were crucial to aligning the project with the client’s vision. The sliding glass doors in the existing space posed a significant challenge, requiring careful coordination to remove, salvage, and re-frame more than 30 new openings. Choate’s work with the vendor and trade partners ensured the partitions were seamlessly integrated into the new design. Similarly, close collaboration with the lighting vendor and electrical trade partner resulted in swift installation up to code with building officials, keeping the project on track.
Using Technology to Advance Progress
Early in the project, there were questions surrounding the existing concrete floor of the office space and its viability to accommodate the new intended design. Conducting a floor-leveling scan, the team produced a heat map highlighting undulated slab areas in need of correction.
Through this approach, the team achieved a clear visual representation of the floor’s condition, enabling them to make precise adjustments. The heat map was instrumental in ensuring the rough openings for the existing glass partitions accounted for the variations in floor elevations as well.
This technique not only facilitated accurate installation of the office’s glass partitions but also enhanced the overall quality of the renovation project. By leveraging this technology, the team was able to overcome a potential challenge and deliver a high-standard finish that achieved the client’s desired outcome.
Emphasis on Sustainability and Supporting Local Trades
In line with PNC’s commitment to sustainability, the design of this corporate renovation project incorporated sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems. This approach not only reflects PNC’s dedication to innovation and excellence but also its responsibility to serving as a steward of the environment.
During the renovation, Choate took intentional steps to support the community by engaging local trade partners and suppliers. With commitment to diversity and inclusion at the forefront, these hiring practices resulted in a project team reflective of the community’s diverse population.
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