Rope Net, Slide and Walking Trail Enhance Health Focus

HCSS’s goal was to create a fun, energetic and creative atmosphere.

SUGAR LAND, TX— Heavy Construction Systems Specialists’ (HCSS) new office building is more than the standard compilation of desks and computers. It boasts several unique elements including a climbing rope net in the lobby to promote health and wellness, along with an adult slide. Obviously, HCSS’s goal was to create a fun, energetic and creative atmosphere that not only embodies the corporate culture but also serves as a catalyst for retaining and recruiting talent. The company recently completed construction of the building located at 13151 West Airport Blvd. It was designed by Studio RED and built by Rosenberger Construction . HCSS vice president of software development Tom Webb says, “our new building has been everything we were looking for: a place our employees love and a showpiece to visitors. We loved the collaboration with Studio RED and Rosenberger Construction that helped make this vision a reality.” The 15,400-square-foot building intended for HCSS’s software development group is organized into pods that accommodate six to eight employees, and promote flexible teaming and collaboration. The architecture and furniture contribute to the space’s flexibility, allowing each team to modify the surroundings to reflect job functions and personalities. A lounge space used for circulation and socialization joins the pods together and is open to both floors, connecting the entire department. Conference rooms, manager offices and support spaces are also included. “This is the type of project Studio RED really enjoys working on,” says principal in charge Micah Simecek . “We loved partnering with HCSS to capture and execute their vision for an engaging, inspiring workspace.” In the previous workspace, employees constantly battled with glare on computer screens. But now, every team pod faces northwest, providing softer, ambient light as opposed to a direct glare from a south or western face. This design solution requires very little artificial light, further reducing glare. Charles Betros , programmer, tells GlobeSt.com: “One of the things I like most about the new building is the standardization of the workspace for employees. I can take my laptop anywhere in the building and have the same setup I use at my desk. This makes it really easy to work with another team for a time or even spend an hour working through a task with another employee.” The building features several sustainable design solutions. Rainwater harvesting, a process through which water is collected from the roof and parking area, and detained in a small pond, is also implemented on site. The pond then acts as a reservoir and water is pumped from the pond to irrigate the surrounding landscape, reducing the need for potable water. The building also has an adjacent walking track. Simon Chan Tack , quality assurance specialist, tells GlobeSt.com: “I love the open design of the new offices. It encourages collaboration and communication among employees. No old cubicles here. It is so spacious, easily accommodating casual gathering spaces not just to congregate, but also to do actual work. This makes a very relaxing and fun environment that enhances positivity and creative thinking.”