March 2010 Newsletter
Austin’s Running Community will soon have a new Destination
Moman Architects recently finished schematic design on a new 6,000 sq. ft. facility specializing in running equipment and apparel. Austin’s new store is due to open on the corner of W. Fifth & Lamar, summer 2010. The Texas Running Company will have close proximity to the Town Lake Hike & Bike Trail for group runs and free “Gait Analysis” that pairs a runner with the perfect equipment.
The concept behind the design, which encompasses everything from schematics through construction, was to create a functional space that is inherently Austin. To accomplish this goal, Moman selected native hill country materials and incorporated cherished local iconography in the design. This exciting new resource for local athletes is sure to leave a mark on downtown’s booming shopping district both for its unique approach to helping customers find the perfect shoe and for its striking architecture.
Beyond Aesthetics: The Importance of Interior Design
According to an article published by the National Institute of Building Sciences, the term “interior design” is defined as a practice that reacts to changes in the economy, technology and business goals of an organization, as well as employee wellness (Read the entire article here). The authors list several hallmarks of a workplace including: health, security, brand, and technological connectivity, all of which contribute to an inspirational and functional office.
The role of an Interior Designer begins with an in-depth analysis and assessment of a client’s business model, mission and motives for either a new or an existing space. Whether the purpose is productivity, expansion, or the creation of a more appealing environment, an updated interior is as critical to the growth of an organization as modern technology upgrades. For instance, one couldn’t competitively operate in the marketplace with only a typewriter. In addition, the average employee spends more of their waking hours at an office than they do at home, making the correlation between good interior design and a high performing workforce undeniable.
Local industry leaders subscribing to the concept of catering to their personnel and clients through architecture and design include the LCRA headquarters, Dell campus, REI downtown, Samsung campus, and the Austin City Hall. Fortunately, the opportunity to invest in efficient and harmonious design has been made more available to all types of businesses from home-based operations to large-scale corporations due to today’s current economy.
“Construction costs are down for building materials and labor costs, so there has never been a better time than now to remodel a space,” says Cherlyn Kuecker, Moman Architects’ resident Interior Designer.