Enhancing Productivity of Employees in Workplaces Through Biophilic Design Strategies (01606142015, B.Arch.)
Chapter 3: Case Studies This chapter presents a review of examples of strategies used in current practice for the design of biophilic workplaces. Such methods include the sub-set of development solutions defined from the theoretical framework of Kellert and backed by empirical evidence found as part of the literature review. The aim of these development approaches is to provide direct and indirect biophilic interactions and relationships centred on locations. The case studies collection was driven by three main parameters. The case studies must include one or more of the empirically supported biophilic development approaches established through the study of literature, provide office space for knowledge workers, and provide examples from both India and the world.
3.1 Case Study 1- CookFox Architecture Studio Location: New York, USA Project Address: 641 Avenue of the Americas (6th Ave) New York, NY Project Type: office, commercial Area: 12,1212 ft office space and 3,6002 ft green roof Year of Completion: 2006 Occupant: COOKFOX Architects LLP Design Team: COOKFOX Architects LLP Biophilic Patterns: Visual Connection with nature, Non-Rhythmic Sensory Stimuli, Biomorphic Forms and Patterns, Prospect As a renovation project, the COOKFOX studio at 641 Avenue of the Americas began to occupy the entire 12,121 square foot penthouse of the former Crawford Simpson department store in the Ladies ' Mile Historic District. As COOKFOX leased the building for the first time in 2006, some key features of the office were underused and in poor condition. Much of the initial ceiling and features of the Corinthian pillar were either destroyed or Figure 11 : Expansive windows curve around the eastern wall overlooking the green roof. The windows covered up, and the allow day light into the office and provide 90% of occupants with views of dramatic sunsets reflecting building was deeply off the city skyline. (P1 P2 P3 P5) ( Terrapin Bright Green, 2019) separated and split into separate office sections. What would transform into a high-profile green roof"[ was] a tar beach with outdated mechanical equipment," according to Rick Cook. 641 Americas Avenue is unique in that the reconstruction of the building was directly influenced by biophilic architecture. Recognizing the importance of the workplace environment in employee and visitor well-being, COOKFOX integrated biophilic construction techniques into the renovation early in the process.The early adoption of trends is evident in the size and engagement to visual and non-visual interactions to nature, non-rhythmic tactile sensations, and shelter, and is marked with the installation of a green roof of 3,600 square feet by the department. Product choices and historical conservation 21
