Northwestern Mutual

Located in the historic Fort Industry Square block in Toledo, Ohio, the office build-out for Northwestern Mutual is approximately 13,000 square feet of commercial office space that spans across two floors of two existing historic buildings. KDG served as the architect of record and was responsible for implementing the program and conceptual space plans into a code-compliant and constructable set of drawings. The program consisted of reception, conference rooms, private offices, suites, open office areas, lounge spaces, and a break room. The second floor of the office space spans across two buildings with different floor elevations, which added complexity in detailing the level changes and meeting accessibility requirements. The most challenging aspect of the build-out was achieving approval from the Ohio State Preservation Office (OHPO). Their approval, along with the National Park Service, was required given the redevelopment of the core and shell project utilized Federal and State Historic Tax Credits. Ceiling finishes, ceiling heights and floor finishes were heavily scrutinized. KDG coordinated negotiations with the building owner and OHPO to find an agreed upon balance between honoring the character of what the historic interior space was while providing the tenant with a new modern office space that met their corporate brand aesthetic, function and comfort expectations.