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68 / BUILDING DIALOGUE / December 2020 were added to themiddle of the space – one on each side of the building – to break up the rows of workstations. The platforms also serve to elevate teammembers located at the center of the building, who typically wouldn’t get the benefits of views oth- erwise, thereby providing equal and unobstructed sightlines of the windows (and vital natural lighting). Much of the core and shell were left untouched in order to maximize the volume of the space, as well as daylighting. Me- ticulous carewas put into the lighting andmechanical systems to ensure they were run in a manner that added architectural interest and highlighted the exposed structure. Further bring- ing the outside in, biophilic connections were also intentional- ly crafted and strategically located throughout the space. One of the key design features is a basket-weave wall that winds its way along two different circulation paths. Inspired by Crocs’ shoe and brand aesthetic, the wall has smooth curves and weaves in and out, creating organic movement through the space, and pulling team members through an otherwise long, uneventful corridor toward the main hub of activity. It also allows for displays of their product that are as unique and interesting as the shoes themselves. Growing within the basket-weave panels is a living wall that is fully irrigated from within the framework of the wall. The plantings are shades of green – soft, organic and verdant – and the interplay works to soften the edges of the hall. Incorporat- ed into the wall are benches that invite team members to sit and take a break, talk with a co-worker, or take a phone call. This architectural feature serves as a pocket park in themiddle of the office. The effect is an inviting, organic experience. Crocs’ new headquarters fully embraces its location, context and design to deliver a one-of-a-kind experience for teammem- bers to safely thrive during this unknown time. As employers across Colorado continue to assess and explore options for bringing people back into the office, creating flexible environ- ments that directly respond to employees’ needs will be essen- tial to ensuring they feel supported and that the office remains viable long-term as a tool for business. \\ / Crocs / OPENING ART TOP: Venture Architecture harnessed the building’s length to create unique corporate neighborhoods, each of which features its own architectural details and unique amenities. OPENING ART BOTTOM: Developed by Etkin Johnson Real Estate Partners, Crocs occupies the entire south building of ATRIA, a 176,000-square-foot, single-story office campus in Broomfield. LEFT: Crocs’ headquarters features a central hub designed to accommodate corporate gatherings, individual work and team-building exercises. RIGHT: Inspired by Crocs’ iconic footwear and unapologetically optimistic outlook, an interior basket-weave living wall winds its ways along two different circulation paths. PHOTOS: Caleb Tkach