NATIVE OKLAHOMA LANDSCAPE:

Taking inspiration from Oklahoma’s indigenous landscapes, our design proposes a variety of indoor and outdoor green areas. Within the west-facing “Porch” are several columnar birch and gingko trees, surrounded by stepped terraces of natural grasses and seating. This vertical landscape extends into the large, multi-story atrium creating an urban-scale living room of vibrant activity. Throughout the upper stories, are office neighborhood terraces with planters, along with a large “Sky Meadow” beneath an open-air oculus. On the upper-most roof is the “Prairie,” a large area of natural growing grasses, trees and perennial flowers; it is a place that accommodates both team meetings or large social gatherings.

SUSTAINABILITY:

We propose a design that meets LEED Gold or Platinum certification through the use of floor to-ceiling glass windows, rooftop solar panels, high-efficiency LED lighting, a chilled beam heating and air conditioning system, high-efficiency boilers and chillers and rainwater collection system.

To promote alternative modes of transportation, we propose areas for bike storage and showers in the new HQ so employs can pedal to the office or take public transportation. And most importantly, we’ve blurred the distinction between working indoors or outdoors at the new headquarters with multiple terraces shaded by deep roof overhangs.

Bringing the landscape up and through the building addresses two effects:

The Biophilia Effect: Studies have shown that people possess a tendency to seek connections with nature. Indoor Plantings (low maintenance) make people feel more engaged and healthy. The Heat Island Effect: The landscape will also assist in reducing the heat island effect which typically occurs when the sun is beating down on a flat surface (roof) throughout the day. Plants will make the summer months feel cooler and more pleasant outdoors.

Location: Oklahoma
Architect: Gertler & Wente Architects LLP