RNGD LLC Transforms Office Building into New Headquarters

News Summary

RNGD LLC has completed a $25 million adaptive reuse project, revitalizing a derelict office building into its new headquarters in Metairie, New Orleans. The renovation spans over 58,392 square feet and includes a materials warehouse and prefabrication facility, showcasing sustainability through a high-performance façade upgrade. The new headquarters features a collaborative workspace design, community spaces, and passive sustainability practices, pointing towards the company’s commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility.

Metairie, New Orleans: RNGD LLC Completes $25 Million Adaptive Reuse Project

RNGD LLC, a construction and modular fabrication company, has successfully completed a $25 million adaptive reuse project, transforming a derelict office building into its new headquarters in Metairie, New Orleans. This significant renovation encompasses 58,392 square feet and serves as the centerpiece of a comprehensive campus that includes a materials warehouse and an adjacent prefabrication facility.

The completed headquarters supports each phase of RNGD’s design-build process, enabling the company to manage both the construction and fabrication of custom façade elements and structural components on-site. This approach not only streamlined operations but also ensured efficiency throughout the project.

Using a high-performance, prefabricated metal panel system, RNGD replaced approximately 90% of the original building façade, emphasizing sustainability and aesthetic improvement. By consolidating design, production, and execution at a single site, the company achieved reduced construction time, minimized material waste, cut costs, and improved overall job site safety and efficiency.

Innovative Design and Layout

The design of RNGD’s new headquarters was led by the architectural firm EskewDumezRipple. The building layout eschews private offices in favor of a more open and collaborative environment, emphasizing transparency among employees. A glass-walled meeting area is positioned above the central workspace adjacent to the central stair, promoting interaction.

The workspace features open-plan seating along with enclosed meeting rooms and designated quiet focus areas, enabling employees to select their preferred work environment. Every desk in the facility is designed to have access to natural light, enhancing the overall work experience.

Visitors enter the building through a landscaped courtyard leading to a bright double-height atrium, which serves to illuminate the interior and create an inviting atmosphere. Additionally, the building includes wings dedicated to administrative tasks and workforce development, further encouraging collaboration among team members.

Community and Collaboration Spaces

A central café and bar area acts as a social hub within the headquarters, offering various seating options such as bar stools, booths, and café tables. This space allows employees to gather, collaborate informally, or take breaks in a comfortable environment. Furthermore, lounge areas equipped with flexible furniture arrangements provide additional settings for relaxation or group discussions.

The new facility also features a central auditorium intended for company-wide gatherings and workforce development programs, reinforcing RNGD’s commitment to growth and team unity.

Sustainability Practices

In alignment with modern sustainability standards, the project incorporates multiple passive design strategies alongside high-performance building systems. Locally sourced materials, energy-efficient LED lighting, and an effective HVAC system were key components of the project, reflecting RNGD’s commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainability.

Project Team Collaboration

The successful completion of this adaptive reuse project was made possible through the collaboration of several key teams. RNGD LLC served as both the owner and contractor of the project, while the architectural and interior design responsibilities were handled by EskewDumezRipple. Critical engineering services were provided by Marais Consultants (civil engineering), Batture LLC (structural engineering), Salas O’Brien (mechanical engineering), and Pontchartrain MEP (electrical and plumbing engineering).

The completion of RNGD’s new headquarters not only rejuvenates a previously neglected office building but also embodies the company’s vision for a transparent, collaborative, and sustainable workspace, setting a new standard for future projects in the region.

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Additional Resources

• BDC Network: New Orleans-Based Builder Transforms Office Building
• Wikipedia: Adaptive Reuse
• New Orleans CityBusiness: Top Commercial Residential Permits
• Google Search: Adaptive Reuse in Construction
• Dignity Memorial: Gary Meadows Obituary
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Sustainability