Story

The Gibson Dunn project brought to life a first-generation space in a trophy-class building, consolidating offices for one of the premier law firms in Washington, DC. Spanning the 7th through 12th floors, the modern office environment enhances team functionality, while elevating client and employee experiences. The project is defined by thoughtful coordination, creative problem-solving, and innovative uses of materials and technology. From the outset, the project required planning and collaboration with Gensler and HITT during a year of preconstruction time. The team worked closely with the base building contractor to resolve structural conflicts before work began, limiting rework and trade inefficiencies. Detailed BIM modeling identified conflicts between the base building ceiling height and the planned interior design. Ultimately, the decision was made to lower ceiling heights to maintain the project schedule. This proactive coordination ensured that all staircases were built into the building without delay and proper plenum space was provided for a functional mechanical system. The interior build-out began before the base building’s final turnover, presenting challenges such as limited permanent power, lack of a watertight building envelope, and impacted building access. HITT managed these obstacles by maintaining close communication with all stakeholders. The use of virtual tools like OpenSpace and Microsoft Teams enabled real-time updates across time zones, ensuring every detail was addressed without pausing progress. The project ultimately delivered a state-of-the-art office space that balances elevated aesthetics and practicality. The design aligns with Gibson Dunn’s goal of uniting previously disconnected teams. Four interconnecting staircases are strategically placed throughout the space, each with a unique design that promotes connectivity and team cohesion. The monumental stair linking the 11th and 12th floors is a standout feature, complemented by a two-story walnut veneer accent wall and natural stone finishes at the reception area. The 7th through 10th floors house attorney workspaces featuring transwall office fronted mountable partitions, offering flexibility and maximizing the use of natural light. Double-glazed office fronts enhance acoustic privacy in conference rooms, while custom millwork stations support staff comfort and productivity. The 10th floor also includes a moot courtroom overlooking the reception area, highlighting the new office’s tailored design for Gibson Dunn’s needs. The 9th and 10th floors introduce spaces for client interactions and employee wellness. The 10th floor features a conference center, while the 11th floor features a multi-purpose room with an employee lounge with a Skyfold partition, and a stylish monumental stair connecting to the 12th floor. On the 12th floor, amenities include a library, a pantry for hosting events, and outdoor terrace access via nano walls, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor experience. Despite material lead-time challenges and a demanding schedule, HITT’s team delivered the project on time. Through a teamwork approach, innovative solutions, and a shared commitment to excellence, the result is a refined and functional space that meets Gibson Dunn’s operational and employee needs.