Utah Architects Design Lobbies to Provide that “Wow” Factor

Gone are the days when a lobby was considered a glorified corridor to an elevator or office. Today, people expect spaces to be useful and engaging; lobbies form the first impressions of a building and even a company’s brand and culture. They have become a determining factor for tenants when deciding to sign a new building lease.

As the lines blur between where we live, work, and play, Curtis Miner Architecture continues to see the influence of the hospitality industry on commercial office, retail, medical office, and tenant improvement projects. “As we work across markets, we see synergies in project types. These concepts then help us capture and create a vision and sense of place for building occupants and owners,” observes Gerrit Timmerman, firm principal. He sees building owners investing in the lobby enhancements such as digital displays, stair features, a concierge desk, balconies, natural daylight, large volumes of space, and a variety of furniture offerings.

The lobby of the Deseret First Credit Union Operations Center is one that stands out to Gerrit. The lobby features a two-story opening at the main entry that showcases a circular stair feature. “The spiral staircase is enclosed with a vertical lattice system,” he describes. “There’s also a curved balcony and a stunning decorative pendant light.” A glass curtain wall fills the space with an abundance of natural daylight.

Even healthcare organizations are working to improve patients’ experience with lobbies, wanting that positive first impression. Recent improvements to American Fork Hospital’s main lobby area provided an opportunity to improve wayfinding and orientation through intuitive architecture and signage. “We know the patient experience can have a healing effect, and it begins at the front door. That’s why we removed bulky columns and barriers that obstructed views and limited patient flow,” says principal Jay Taggart. Digital media screens, an etched marble wall, and an update to interiors also serve to strengthen patient engagement.

Our team of architects and interior designers possess a high level of creativity and design ability, allowing them to create floor plans, select furniture, and create balanced, beautiful layouts. “The ability to develop 3D visualizations, renderings, and virtual reality scenes to help clients select high-quality finishes and materials is exciting,” explains interior designer Christina Perry. “We work closely with a client to consider proportions and volume of space for a high-profile lobby. And while it can be high design, we are careful to select appropriate materials and finishes to fit within the project budget.”

A thoughtful blend of architecture and interior design will ensure that your lobby is no longer just the entrance to a building. Whether you want to attract prospective tenants, reinforce brand identity, or create a sense of place, CMA can leverage the best design philosophies and strategies to bring a lobby to life.