Located in the amenity-rich and transit-oriented community of the Mueller Development, pedestrian interaction and the urban context of the site influenced the architectural material palette, scale and organization of public spaces, including a shared breezeway. After outgrowing their existing facility, the design team were tasked with creating a transparent and safe workplace for Texas Mutual’s new headquarters that accommodated the consolidation of over 600 employees, encouraged collaboration and social interaction, attracted and retained new talent, and provided flexibility for growth. Promoting well-being and fostering the Texas Mutual culture were driving factors in the spatial organization and key elements of the design. Daylighting, natural materials, and a biophilic approach utilizing materials that mimic natural patterns were implemented throughout. Social spaces were sporadically placed to encourage movement across floors, a multi-story green wall, and a courtyard and rooftop terrace with Wi-Fi connection encouraged employees to be connected to each other and to nature.
Location, Austin, Texas, 2018
Scope, 4-Story Office Building, Ground Floor Retail & Parking Garage, 270,000 s.f.
Program, Reception Area, Open & Private Offices, Conference Rooms, Multi-function Room, Daycare Facility, Rooftop Terrace & Courtyard
Services, Masterplanning, Architecture, Programming, Interior Design, Sustainability Consulting
Client, Texas Mutual Insurance Company
Team, Milton Hime, Robert Byrnes, Ethan Glass, Megan Rangel, Lee Ann McClanahan, Megan Slattery, Umesh Atre
Certifications, LEED Gold, AEGB 4-Star
Sustainability Strategies, Walkable/Bikeable site, High performance building envelope, AE Mueller chilled-water-service tie-in, Biophilia, Daylighting & Views, On-site Gym, Daycare, Mother’s Rooms, Staircase promotion, Green Housekeeping
Awards, ATX Green Awards - Project of the Year, 2019, The Building Health Leadership Award, 2019