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This modernization project for the Pierre Federal Building, a Mid-century modern structure originally built in 1965, creates a state-of-the-art, high-performing green building that meets federal energy conservation goals, integrates architectural form, and optimizes building systems. The facade design and detailing is intended to reflect the dignity, enterprise, vigor, and stability of the United States Federal Government.

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A new triple-glazed, unitized curtain wall system was prefabricated off-site and installed while the existing building was fully occupied by the FBI and U.S. Courts, Attorney’s Office, U.S. Marshals Service, Probation, Postal Service, and others. As an added benefit, the triple glazing provides noticeable noise reduction for building occupants.

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The new high-performance curtain wall system complies with Performance Guidelines of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). Compared to the existing stone and glass panels, the new curtain wall glazing represents an overall R-value increase of 151% (i.e. factor of 2.5X the existing). This improves the overall comfort of the tenants and reduces annual energy costs. By modifying the overall height and the specification of the glass, tenants now receive additional daylight and get more expansive views to the surrounding city and fields.

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The GSA, under its Design Excellence and Construction Excellence program, awarded this Design-Build contract to the team of Sheehy Construction and Robert Siegel Architects.