Citadel Construction completes 40,000 s/f headquarters for Flack + Kurtz

Citadel Construction has completed the new headquarters for WSP Flack + Kurtz, soon to be certified as a Gold LEED Commercial Interior (CI).  Located at 512 Seventh Ave., the 40,000 s/f space follows a design conceived by FxFowle Architects, PC, with dramatic installations such as handcrafted sliding doors, a multi-paneled hanging glass wall, and a dynamic global graphic. "We are very proud of our new headquarters and our staff loves the new space.  After working closely with FxFowle and Citadel on the LEED Platinum headquarters for the National Audubon Society, we knew we had the right team to deliver a Gold rated sustainable home for us," said David Cooper, CEO/president WSP Flack + Kurtz. Working on the heels of the National Audubon Society project, currently pending LEED certification, the Citadel team was well-schooled in the particulars and the processes as defined by the U.S. Green Building Council.    All LEED features required diligent scrutiny. The GC closely monitored its subcontractors to ensure that the low volatile organic compounds (VOCs) specified met the stringent LEED requirements. In addition, only rapidly renewed products including cork flooring and green certified organically composed carpeting were installed.   A thorough IAQ (Internal Air Quality) Plan detailed several initiatives: ductwork was sealed airtight on supply and return ends during transport and delivery; a temporary site ventilation system reduced odors at the worksite. Plastic shields and footpaths segregated work areas minimizing dust and debris throughout construction and helped maintain a clean environment and healthier, more breathable air. Citadel hired a specialty recycling subcontractor to implement a waste management plan to ensure at least three-quarters of all construction debris was specially handled and hauled away for processing and reuse. Loads were carefully tracked and recorded from the moment they left the site to arrival at the recycling facility. Citadel closely coordinated subcontractor activity to make sure proper removal procedures were observed at all times. The design vision of FxFowle Architects, PC, for the interior required the careful orchestration of various components. The team mounted a pair of immense 500+ pound millwork sliding panels to serve as front doors on specially crafted hardware imported from Germany. They then suspended four 10 ft. high Lucite panels and an inspiring global graphic pinpointing WSP Flack + Kurtz's worldwide sites using high-intensity aircraft cable. The result: a compelling visual delineating the reception area from the offices. Having the opportunity to work with the expert teams at WSP Flack + Kurtz and FxFowle, Citadel quickly established open dialogues, allowing client, architect and GC to readily address and resolve issues on various project nuances. "We knew we were working with the top tier in engineering and design. Being surrounded by such expertise brought an inherent standard of excellence that was inspiring to all members of the project team," said Citadel project executive Phil Pignatelli. On all counts, from adhering to immovable deadlines and absolute LEED guidelines to bringing a bold and innovative vision to life, the Citadel team excelled. The seamless transition of more than 250 employees into a vibrant "Gold" headquarters was successfully accomplished.