Riverfront Development
The site is a few blocks north of downtown Tuscaloosa and is bordered by the Black Warrior Riverfront Park to the north and Jack Warner Parkway to the south. The Owners sought to set a high standard for responsible cultivation of the Riverfront as an edifying place to conduct business in their hometown, while protecting and enhancing its natural value as a scenic, historic and symbolic resource for the City. Originally almost entirely below the 100 year flood elevation, the site contains wetlands and dense stands of trees. The site strategy was to preserve the character by nestling the building within the small forest and creating space that connected people to the waterfront park.
The main building entry is through an allée of elm trees, over a foot bridge and culminating in a large public porch with sweeping views of the river, the park and the northern shore. The building is oriented to maximize daylighting potential and to minimize solar gain. Large southern and western overhangs protect the interior from direct sun during the hottest months and provide sheltered exterior gathering spaces. The building’s glass skin is a dynamic play of high performance, reflective, clear and spandrel glass, contributing to a 30% energy savings and a LEED gold rating.