David Oakey Design's commitment to the environment is the driving force behind the textile and carpet firm's new $1.4 million headquarters, Pond Studios. Built in LaGrange, Georgia, the building won both Distinguished Building and Interior Architecture awards.

The firm designed the barn-like facility to conserve energy by using large single- pane windows that can rely solely on natural light during the day. To keep building materials to a minimum, the roof structure and walls were left exposed and retain an unfinished look.

The jury applauded the use of simple materials like concrete and steel to construct this facility. One juror noted that the building's design is appropriate in conveying the idea of a workshop. The building's interior is wide open, emphasizing the company's belief in open communication and teamwork. The studio is set up with open work surfaces for designers, which are adjacent to private zones for using computers. The centerpiece of a conference area is a table used for design presentations whose surface can be changed from granite to carpet to stainless steel.

Other special features include a cantilevered deck overlooking the pond and a pre-fab staircase with a steel handrail attached by cables and turnbuckles.



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