Trendy office design transforms 1968 modernist tower into innovation hub for world energy options chief.
HOK’s design for the renovation of the six-story Cummins Technical Middle in Columbus, Indiana, has remodeled the landmark tower, initially designed by mid-century modernist Harry Weese, right into a state-of-the-art office. The 72,000-sq.-ft. workplace house spans 5 flooring, accommodating roughly 500 staff centered on analysis and growth for Cummins’ next-generation energy options.
“The reopening of the CTC workplace tower marks an necessary milestone for Cummins and our Vacation spot Zero technique,” stated Cummins Chair and Chief Government Officer Jennifer Rumsey. “A lot of the analysis and growth for our next-generation energy options begin proper right here on this very hub.”
The challenge modernizes Cummins’ first and longest-standing technical middle, which revolutionized the corporate’s R&D capabilities when it opened in 1968. As Cummins invests closely in future applied sciences, the renovated constructing continues its function as a vital innovation hub.
HOK’s design emphasizes collaboration and innovation all through the workplace house. Key options embody a brand new interconnecting stair, two social hubs and greater than 90 convention rooms of various sizes with stadium-style seating. To help worker well-being and inclusion, the design incorporates gender-neutral restrooms, nursing rooms, quiet areas and treadmill desks. The staff additionally built-in gentle lab zones and expanded collaboration areas all through the constructing.
“Our design respects Weese’s modernist legacy whereas creating the dynamic, versatile workspace Cummins wants for innovation,” stated Kelly Lott, follow chief for HOK’s Interiors group in St. Louis. “The outcome maintains the constructing’s architectural integrity whereas supporting the collaborative tradition important to Cummins’ engineering groups.”
The design celebrates Cummins’ heritage by incorporating plus (+) symbols in featured areas, honoring famend graphic designer Paul Rand who created a number of of Cummins’ historic logos. The renovation additionally consists of sensible updates like upgraded lighting programs and purposeful window blinds.
“I’m grateful to our CTC staff for his or her persistence and perseverance throughout this much-needed renovation,” stated Tim Frazier, Cummins Vice President – Analysis & Expertise. “We’re so glad to have our Cummins HELM™ engineers, technical specialists and innovators collectively once more below the identical roof working as a coordinated staff, near the expertise and testing being executed right here.”
The renovation, constructed by F.A. Wilhelm Building Co., was accomplished in late 2024 after a three-year course of.
