Project:

Charlotte Plaza Repositioning

Client:

Rabina Properties

Insertion of Light

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The developer, Rabina Properties, wanted to reposition the outdated Charlotte Plaza property so the building could stay competitive in the corporate real estate market and better engage with the community. The building is their first property in the Charlotte market, and with its purchase Rabina Properties is quickly establishing roots in the city. The team designed a new two-story public entry space which transforms the Charlotte Plaza into a light, bright, and inviting space.

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Originally constructed in 1986, the distinct, all-black, glass building is on a prominent and visible city corner in Uptown Charlotte. A key component of the property's future plan and design is to take advantage of its prime location and create an opportunity for people to engage with the building. No longer just a thoroughfare building, the new design has opportunities for people to spend time at Charlotte Plaza. A two-story clear glass intervention creates a sophisticated entry, with interior walls adorned by beautiful marble sourced from Italy. The property sits on the Overstreet Mall, a series of covered bridges connecting many of the urban towers, so circulation became a primary design driver and dictated a relocation of the escalators to a more central location. To enhance the tenant experience, classic furnishings create opportunities along the Mall level for informal gatherings.

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With the exterior plated in all black glass, a primary goal was to interject more light into the building. The entry piece is designed around a clear glass entry to bring in daylight and enable visibility to the street. A custom light fixture is a one-of-a-kind piece and incorporates art in architecture. The large bespoke light fixture was co-designed with London based lighting studio BY LUUM. It contains 28 separate acrylic shards of light erupting from one central axis, creating an iconic piece. Improvements to the exterior pavers, and in-ground lighting creates a cohesive pedestrian experience at the exterior. The team also performed branding and logo design services throughout the refreshed space.

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Gensler | Halkin Mason Photography

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