Main Level - Southwest View
Anmar Sarafa, is the Founder, President and CIO of Steward Capital Management, Inc. an SEC registered investment firm established in 1988. After an introduction to Anmar, we walked-through an existing building he purchased, located any 610 W Congress, in Detroit. While touring the building, I was inspired by Anmar’s visionary persona. In 1992, Anmar was featured in Crain’s Detroit, after receiving the 40 under 40 award. With the same goal in mind today, as quoted from The Crain’s article: “I gain satisfaction not just in making a living, but putting money to work, creating new jobs and opportunities.”
Through several meetings, Anmar revealed a clear vision to repurpose 610 W. Congress building into The Office of the Future. Anmar also demonstrated a rare quality (predictive inference) - The ability to gather a minimum number of facts, make an intuitive leap to forecast a theory, and then back-track to prove the accuracy of your theory.”
The existing building is composed of two and one half stories, and a total of 21,000 s.f. of leasable area.
Main Level = 8,000 s.f.
Upper Level = 5,000 s.f.
Lower Level = 8,000 s.f.
Building on Anmar’s vision, we assembled an outstanding team and went to work. Through in-depth research and conversations with industry leaders, such as Steelcase and Cisco WebEx, we positioned the Office of the Future to incorporate a hybrid work environment. Since the Covid Pandemic, we have experienced a paradigm shift in the workforce. Outdated requirements set forth by the Industrial Age worker (8-12 hours per day) are no longer effective or desired. The Hybrid Office of the Future is designed to attract a top-tier tenant, that supports an approximate work week of approximately 20 hours in the office, and 12-20 hours working remotely.
Building Owner & Client:
Anmar Sarafa
Design Team:
Steelcase - Hybrid office furniture
Cisco WebEx - Cutting-edge video conferencing technology
Parabola Architecture + Development - Interior Architecture Design
Consultants:
Farbman Group - Paul DeBono, Commercial Real Estate
Delos, New York - Delos. New York - Wellness Solutions & Products for Healthy Spaces: 1) Material science, 2) Wellness certification, and 3) Air purification systems.
Strategy - To redefine the transitional, out-dated office into uncontested commercial market space.
Primary Obstacle - 610 W. Congress is located several blocks from the Woodward Avenue business and retail district, Downtown Detroit.
Opportunities - To reposition the building to grow integrally with the current Huntington Place Convention Center Expansion.:
The helix shaped parking ramp will be demolished and replaced with a public park
Second Street will be extended to the waterfront as a walkable destination for festivals
As our hybrid office model evolved, we were excited to discover that 610 W Congress is located within the heart of the Huntington Place Expansion. As expansion plans continue to unfold, we continue to explore highest-and-best-use of this site, and strategies to create a new market to meet future needs.
Currently, the commercial office market in Downtown Detroit, contains an abundance of unrented office space. Our comparative analysis model: Traditional Commercial Office vs Hybrid Office of the Future:
Key competing factors within the traditional commercial real estate industry - The traditional method that defines the commercial real estate market is no longer effective. The Pandemic has redefined how, why, and when we use office space.
Blue Ocean Strategy*- We are creating and leading a new market within the commercial real estate industry (uncontested market space), with a clear vision that challenges the status quo. Rather than engaging with traditional competition, we are committed to shaping uncontested market space by redefining the value proposition.
*Blue Ocean Strategy research accomplished by W. Chan Kim and Renée Mauborgne
Four categories define our Blue Ocean Strategy:
Eliminate - Prioritize eliminating ineffective office practices
Reduce- Reduce non-essential office elements
Raise - Elevate amenities that directly serve the needs of the hybrid workforce
Create - Design and integrate innovative ideas that reshape the commercial real estate landscape
Our approach is to avoid competing within the existing market, or conforming to existing norms. We are not bound by the limitations of existing market dynamics, but rather pioneering new concepts and strategies that empower the hybrid workforce and elevate the industry as a whole.
Main Level - Floor Plan
We have embraced a forward-thinking approach to workspace design. By eliminating and replacing the segregated workspace with a creative open office floor plan, multi-sized huddle rooms, and flexible conference rooms, we have redefined the traditional office layout to foster collaboration, creativity, and flexibility. Our innovative design approach seamlessly integrates different work styles and encourages interaction. Ultimately, we are enhancing the overall efficiency and dynamism of the workspace. This transformation reflects our commitment to creating modern, adaptable environments that cater to the evolving needs of today's workforce.
Main Level - Southeast View
According to McKinsey's Office of the Future research, the new hybrid workforce generation values private "huddle rooms" open brainstorming areas, no longer gravitates towards private offices. Executives are willing to trade the private offices for amenities offered within a highly creative work environment.
We challenged the conventional paradigm of office layout by eschewing the rigid, modular furniture plan commonly associated with traditional workspaces. Instead, our design philosophy integrates the gentle, organic curves found in nature to cultivate an environment conducive to relaxation and fostering creative inspiration. We carefully crafted a design solution that prioritizes fluidity and movement, facilitating the creation of numerous small, large, and open spaces. These versatile spaces are thoughtfully curated to offer individuals the flexibility to transition from one area to another, enabling them to effortlessly set up their laptop computer and immerse themselves in their tasks.
Main Floor - East View
Through extensive research, we learned that people working from home feel isolated from their work teams; therefore, we partnered with Cisco WebEx, to bring the most advanced state-of-the-art mobile workstation and video conference technology to the hybrid office. Technology is the key to the hybrid office. Cisco’s participation in our Hybrid Office of the Future design concept was fundamental in determining proximity relationships to promote effective communication between on-site and remote workers.
Main Level - Northeast View
Nestled into the flowing space plan, we created private areas, such as sound-isolated phone booths and break-out areas, to isolate private conversations.
A new heart-shaped floor opening is skillfully designed into the Main Level, to transcend views into the Lower Level. A skylight above provides natural daylighting and a visual connection between Main and Lower Levels.
Main Level - Northeast View
According to Alex Sooting-Kim Pang, Stanford Professor and author of the book Rest, the effective work week is approximately (20 hours), opposed to a 40-80 hours. Productivity and intense focus over short periods of time must be balanced with rest, relaxation, and recovery. We are creating a third environment - conducive to creativity and enhanced productivity to align remote and office workers.
Main Level - Lobby View
Throughout the COVID Pandemic, we experienced fear and uncertainty. After repeatedly being instructed to maintain a distance of 6’-0” and advised not to shake hands, we are returning to a normal lifestyle. Based on what we have learned, Parabola A+D has carefully extracted lessons from the Pandemic to move forward. Therefore, we provide large and small meeting areas within the main lobby to avoid disrupting hybrid office workers.
Main Level - Grab & Go Cafe
We envision a space where convenience seamlessly integrates with wellness. Picture a haven within your reach—a place that not only houses innovative design but also caters to the essence of nourishment for both body and mind.
Imagine stepping into a world where a gourmet chef artfully crafts delectable dishes, a Grab & Go Cafe offers quick yet savory bites, and a fresh juice bar tantalizes your taste buds with revitalizing concoctions—all under one roof. Gone are the days of rushing out for a hasty lunch or a rejuvenating snack. In this space, every craving and every need for sustenance is met with unparalleled ease.
The amalgamation of culinary excellence and healthful choices ensures that you can fuel your body and mind without ever leaving the building. Our offerings are tailored to elevate your experience and your well-being.
Upper Level - Floor Plan
We reimagined the Upper Level, a space previously occupied by oversized executive offices, and created a highly flexible and informal environment that encourages versatility and adaptability. One of the standout features is the Yoga Studio, which has been designed to seamlessly convert into a venue for formal dinner events, showcasing the adaptability of the space to cater to various needs. Additionally, the juice bar has been strategically positioned to serve as a versatile area for hosting and catering, adding functional value to the space. The culinary experience is enriched by the Lower Level Kitchen, equipped to prepare gourmet meals and desserts, which can then be effortlessly elevated to the Upper Level for service. This integration of spaces enables a smooth flow of culinary creations, enhancing the overall experience for guests and workers.
This project exemplifies our commitment to creating spaces that are not only visually striking but also highly functional, adaptable, and conducive to a variety of experiences. The resulting environment is one that fosters creativity, collaboration, and enjoyment, redefining the possibilities of modern architectural design.
Upper Level - Northwest View
The breathtaking city skyline serves as a captivating backdrop, elevating the ambiance and creating a truly remarkable setting for workers and guests. In our design, we have meticulously integrated a furnished outdoor area with easy access to fresh air, prioritizing the well-being and comfort. This thoughtful provision not only enhances the overall experience but also fosters a sense of enjoyment and relaxation, making every moment special.
Upper Level - South View
A 10-20 minute mindful meditation break is a highly effective method to achieve balance, stress and anxiety reduction. The latest neuroscience research, indicates that 20 minutes of deep meditation is equivalent to six hours of sleep.
By seamlessly integrating these captivating amenities into the architecture, we aim to elevate the everyday experience for the space's occupants, transforming work routine into memorable moments that are both inspiring and rejuvenating. Our approach to designing these informal areas demonstrates our commitment to crafting spaces that not only fulfill practical functions, but also offer an enriching visual and sensory experience that transcends the ordinary.
Upper Level - East View
We designed informal meeting and lunch areas with a deliberate focus on enhancing the experience with breathtaking views of the City and waterfront. The strategic positioning of these areas allows individuals to convene in an inviting, casual setting while also providing an immersive visual connection to the dynamic urban landscape and the tranquil waterfront.
Lower Level - Floor Plan
Cardio & strength training - Daily exercise increases focus, concentration, and promotes optimal health and wellbeing. That's why we prioritize the integration of cutting-edge cardio and strength training facilities within the Lower Level. Our commitment to promoting a healthy lifestyle is reflected in the provision of the latest exercise equipment, enabling our users to engage in daily workouts conveniently. Additionally, we provide showers, eliminating the need to leave the building post-workout.
Lower Level:
On-site health courses are led by visiting physicians, nutritionists, psychologists, and wellbeing experts. A Lower Level gourmet chef on-site prepares daily meals and healthy snacks for employees and guests.
Our commitment to holistic health extends to our culinary offerings. With a gourmet chef on-site, we ensure that daily meals and healthy snacks are prepared with the utmost care and attention to nutrition. The presence of a fresh juice bar further enhances the variety of options available, promoting a balanced and wholesome approach to eating.
By providing these amenities, we seek to create an environment that supports the overall health and wellbeing of the hybrid community. We believe that investing in the physical, mental, and emotional health of the employees and guests is essential for fostering a positive and productive atmosphere.
Lower Level:
We understand the need for privacy in the workplace. Steelcase offers glass-wall private offices that provide a balance between privacy and connectivity, allowing individuals to work in isolated spaces without feeling completely secluded. The transparent nature of the glass walls maintains a connection to the surrounding environment while providing a sense of enclosure. This design approach ensures that individuals can focus on their tasks without feeling cut off from the rest of the office.
Lower Level:
Resa-mercial creative work areas, where flowing curves and creative work spaces take center stage, replacing traditional modular office partitions and workstations. This innovative approach to office design goes beyond the conventional, fostering a vibrant and dynamic environment for modern work and home settings. Our partnership with Steelcase, a renowned leader in workplace solutions, aims to elevate the office experience by integrating ergonomically designed comfort into every aspect of the office environment.
Within this reimagined space, employees are encouraged to think, collaborate, and create. From versatile seating options to adaptable work surfaces, we empower individuals to embrace their creativity and productivity, ultimately fostering a more fulfilling work experience.
Lower Level:
The addition of a piano into the Lower Level space serves a dual purpose:. First, the presence of the piano provides a calming and unifying influence, as music has been shown to have a soothing effect on individuals and can serve as a common ground for bringing people together. Additionally, the piano cultivates a sense of community by creating an environment where individuals can gather to create and share ideas. Whether through impromptu performances, collaborative songwriting sessions, or casual conversations sparked by the presence of the instrument, the piano creates an atmosphere conducive to fostering connections and nurturing creativity among the building's occupants.