This new corporate HQ is situated on its site in an attempt to preserve a significant remaining patch of woodland, wooded wetlands and hedgerows while optimizing the relationship of the proposed program with adjacent context.
A system of hedgerows is layered over a modulated ground-plane of mounds and ditches. These land forms are further layered with a successional field condition between the planted hedgerows. The intention is for this condition to be managed over time towards a series of native deciduous forest zones, shrub scrublands and meadows. This system is organized to capture storm water run-off and provide an informal secure perimeter. A wetland and pond capture and hold water as habitat, reflective surface and programmable plane (winter skating). This plane acts as joint condition between the architecture of the headquarters and the preserved forest on the site. The edges of this transitional zone are articulated with the clear formation of elements that serve both formal and functional roles. Terraced landforms and stepped seating connect to the waters edge and are overlaid by formalized native plantings. Water that is allowed to flow out of the building and parking areas emerges through constructed channels and troughs that connect to the pond. Finally, the primary gathering terrace of the building extends into the forest via a 400 meter elliptical boardwalk that culminates at its apex in a meditation pavilion in the heart of the woods.