This studio explored the design of an Office Building as a means to investigate the incorporation of various technologies into the comprehensive design of a building. The site is located in city of Limerick, Ireland. The project is designed to house a small branch of Google office for development research. Through vigorous precedent study and cataloging other google designed offices a comprehensive understanding of inter-relationships of an IT office were obtained. The main priority of Google is collaboration and interaction to increase creativity and the building is designed to facilitate that.

This project showcases a design for an Office Building in Limerick, Ireland; standing as a headquarters to an architectural lighting company that focuses on passive and artificial lighting. Research has shown that over a 10 year period the cost to a company is as follows: 82% towards employee salaries, while the remaining 18% covers initial building cost and long-term maintenance care of the facility. The main driving concept is to increase worker productivity, longevity, and overall work space performance. This will result in a more efficient use of the 82% of the company’s expenses.

There is a new movement toward the implementation of inclusive design ideas in the built world. In order to apply the eight goals of universal design (body fit, comfort, wellness, awareness, understanding, social integration, personalization, and cultural appropriateness), various elements of a space must be evaluated in terms of their potential to eliminate discrimination as a result of age, weight, height, ethnicity, or any other characteristic. With the basis of an office building established, the following study examines individual elements of an open office space in terms of their universal design aspects.

Topics of interest include systems (both active and passive), acoustics, ergonomics, and spacial relationships. Precedent building designs had been studied for their attractive interior elements; these same office buildings are further explored for their implementation of or lack of attention to the eight goals. It is hopeful that architects and other designers will conduct similar studies before designing a space and eventually, universal design will become a necessity.

Ireland is one of the most touristic spots in the world. Every year the number of tourists who visit Ireland is higher than its own population. In the maze of Medieval, Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian architecture, one typology that stands out is castles of Ireland. In a wish to reveal Ireland the project reflects several influences of that typology. To develop the spot as a touristic attraction the office building is extended beyond the site. The park adjacent to the building incorporates amphitheater, food courts, floating decks, and boating facilities. The public area is expanded into the building, incorporating a museum and a restaurant.