Health Care REIT Corporate Headquarters

Project Details

Project Description

Health Care REIT, a leading real estate investment trust, acquired the former Dana Corporation campus in Toledo. This somewhat stodgy and dark 1970’s era headquarters building, located in a 166 acre park-like setting, was transformed into an energetic light-infused, state-of-the-art headquarters for Health Care REIT.

The neo-classical facade of the original building, considered a local landmark by many, was preserved by inserting strategically located glass window walls under the central portico, below roof pediments, and at the dining and fitness areas at the north end of the building. Extra deep, white mullion covers were conceived to convey a minor, column-like classical order that stands in counter-point to the major classical order of the large columns of the front portico.

Because of the need for enhanced natural light and views, the manipulation of the façade was an important focus of the design process. However, shaping the interior spaces in an inspiring way and enhancing the client culture was the true imperative.

The interior was completely removed and replaced with a crisply detailed lobby, meeting rooms, open offices, kitchen and café, teleconference room, fitness center, and auditorium. The bilateral symmetry of the building was reinforced by a lobby centered on a new, two-story granite wall. Large atria on either side were carved out from the structure and given free-standing staircases and natural wood elements. These features were enhanced with natural light from new skylights and ceiling fins created to reduce glare. Meeting rooms, including a unique barrel-vaulted space for executive meetings and events, occupy both ends of the building where views of the landscape are dramatic. Perimeter offices and conference rooms, with full height interior glass walls, permit views and penetration of natural light deep into the building.

This design solution shows that a forward-leaning, contemporary interior can successfully be integrated within a historically sensitive exterior in ways that enhance and enrich both. Through the efforts of the design team and the owner, the project has achieved LEED PLATINUM certification from USGBC. New sustainable design features include a solar hot water system, green roof terrace, retention pond, walking trails, highly efficient HVAC systems, and a two-acre solar photovoltaic field.