Core and Shell:
Cathay Bank
Cathay Bank decided to relocate their Southern California headquarters to an existing 7-story building at 9650 Flair Drive, in El Monte California.
As part of the project, the owner decided to re-skin the entire building with a new glazing system.
The interior space was totally gutted with a new core design around the existing stairs and elevator shaft. All MEP systems and infrastructures within each floor were new and were designed specifically to meet new space plans with the flexibility for a potential future fit.
The main challenge on this project was working with local jurisdiction, identifying what the requirements were to make the building comply with latest high rise codes, while not entirely changing out the existing system. As a result, ARC along with partners Gensler and Turelk provided the design for a full sprinkler system for the building, a new emergency fire life safety generator, a new AHU on the roof with a 100% full economizer system, and a new electrical service and distribution system for the entire building.
This project won the Calibre Award for ARC. The Calibre Awards recognizes and honors the excellence of project teams who have exceeded the expectations of our profession to bring interior design to life.