The general architecture of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services building is meant to blend into the existing community while demonstrating a prominence and stature that will set it apart from other office buildings.  

The exterior materials are primarily brick with granite accents, both extremely durable materials that are available locally and common in use.  The front elevation of the building has a southern exposure; therefore, sunshade elements and an extended overhang have been designed into the facade to prevent excessive solar gain in the summer while allowing the lower winter sun to penetrate the interior spaces.  Also integrated into the facade design is a narrow glass band located directly above the sunshades to bring light into the building and reflect it onto the ceiling by the use of light shelves placed on the inside face of the windows.  This feature will encourage natural light to penetrate farther into the building, thus reducing the need for artificial lighting during daytime hours.

Once inside the building, visitors will be greeted with a large two-story atrium lobby space featuring a prominent main stairway leading to the second floor.  Beyond the entry lobby, the building contains a compact central core which allows USCIS to maximize use of exterior walls for office suites while keeping entries to each suite secure and convenient to shared programs spaces and toilet rooms.  Column spacing is generally 30’ square, allowing for flexibility of office layouts now and in the future.  The building is designed and constructed to achieve a Silver LEED certification from the US Green Building Council.

The project, located in the area of Taft Corners in Williston, is an ideal location for its access to public transportation, restaurants, and other community facilities.

Creative Sustainable Solutions