BEFORE- A fairly typical attorney’s office, with papers, files and boxes filled with notes that need to be within arm’s reach and are referenced for months at a time.
Everyone loves before and after photos, don’t they? Whether it’s hairstyles, clothing or rooms — there is something about seeing what ones potential can be that makes us crave comparing before and after images. In my work, it is very difficult for a client to imagine what a finished space will look like – plans and elevations just don’t cut it; it is hard to see a two-dimensional drawing and imagine the finished space. Luckily for me, there are now great rendering software packages – and, more importantly – brilliant people who know how to use them! The brilliant person I connected with is Jim Reben, who owns Architectural Image Solutions. He’s the mastermind behind the image below that shows my concept for the “cockpit” office for an attorney who needed files and boxes at his fingertips. I’ve been designing offices for more than 20 years – and, now that I have Jim Reben as my not-so-secret weapon, I can’t imagine doing a project without him!
AFTER- An office that is 50% smaller then the one shown in the “before” image above, yet allows for far more efficiency and improved productivity. Plenty of uninterrupted worksurface area to layout files and documents, and a total of 24 lineal feet of shelving to hold cardboard banker boxes, allowing for cases that go on and on to be handled seamlessly. Windows let in natural light and a sliding glass door allows privacy when needed. Check out the smaller images to see Jim Reben’s incredible attention to detail — from the reflection in the desk lamp to the labels and words on pieces of paper — this guy makes everything seem realistic!
