New Millennium Building Systems faced a unique challenge when expanding within historic Electric Works Building 19. New Millennium, a division of Steel Dynamics Incorporated (SDI), needed to seamlessly connect operations between the first and third floors despite the unoccupied second floor that existed between them. This corporate tenant required more than basic vertical access. They sought a solution that would best facilitate daily business while accentuating the building’s historic character. The solution also had to maintain the sophisticated atmosphere expected of this premier adaptive reuse development.
MSKTD & ASSOCIATES approached this project as an opportunity to solve multiple complex challenges: creating vertical access that bypasses public spaces, preserving required historic materials and transforming functional necessity into an exceptional user experience. Rather than defaulting to standard approaches, the client envisioned making the elevator a dramatic focal point featured in the space.
To solve these challenges, the project strategy focused on creating a polished industrial aesthetic that highlighted the building’s historic structure while blending contemporary elements to serve their operational needs. Original brick walls, concrete columns and steel beams were preserved and juxtaposed with sleek, contemporary finishes. The transparent glass elevator cab with integrated LED lighting transformed simple vertical transportation into an immersive, memorable experience.
Another unique design element was incorporating products from New Millennium Building Systems into the design. The design team was able to utilize their components to enhance both functionality and aesthetics. Building 19 is now a sophisticated yet warm environment that reflects both the building’s industrial heritage and the client’s forward-thinking operations.
Executing this vision required creative problem solving, precise coordination and facilitation of a collaborative team that extended beyond MSKTD. The collective effort from the owner, contractor and design team made this project a success.
For New Millennium Building Systems, MSKTD delivered a carefully tailored design that promotes daily operations while preserving the historical integrity of the Electric Works campus.