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Creative Civilization
The area surrounding the downtown Municipal Auditorium has always enjoyed a cultural stronghold due to its rich history of fine arts performances.
The Carter building, located across the street, is going through a revitalization process continuing the area’s arts infiltration and cultural richness. Creative Civilization ad agency is the anchor tenant furthering this vision.
This two-story building was built in the 1920’s as a Studebaker automobile dealership. The upper 15,000 sf level will now office Creative Civilization. The lower level will be home to several non-profit art groups, a coffee shop, and a quaint performing arts section.
The remodeling process will resurrect the period architecture of the 1920’s by the use of color, a new front façade, plus a new exterior elevator and stair.
The overall impression CC wanted was an open and contemporary space. This was achieved by utilizing the building’s unique character that features an open plan, three magnificent light wells, and abundant natural light. Private offices were located along perimeter walls allowing three production areas to be placed beneath the three clerestories that filter natural light into the space. One clerestory features a loft that serves as a small research library. Below the loft will be a video viewing room. A large conference room is centered on the existing south facing window wall that provides a clear and unobstructed view to downtown San Antonio.
An existing ramp, once used by the car dealership to transport show cars to the second floor, will now serve as an art gallery. A large curved wall will greet visitors as they enter the space from either the new exterior elevator or stairs. The staff dining and lounge area with full kitchen set up will be placed behind this wall.
San Antonio, Texas
Client: Creative Civilization
Completed: 2005
Construction budget: $450,000
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