Since 1936, C.D. Smith Construction has been an industry leader in safely providing the highest quality commercial construction services. They consistently offer world-class service backed by generations of industry leadership and technical expertise. As the firm began to outgrow its headquarters on the east side of Fond du Lac, it was natural that they would select Kahler Slater, who embodies similar core values, to design a new headquarters that would reflect the company’s brand and be a testimonial to their craft of construction.

From inception, the project was designed to maintain high energy efficiency and support the goals of LEED Gold certification. Systems were designed and installed for advanced energy and water monitoring. For power generation, 5,284 square-feet of roof-mounted photovoltaic panels support a 94 Kilowatt system. Motorized roller shades and automatic lighting controls also support energy management within the building.

The 50,000 square-foot building was constructed with materials specifically selected to showcase the company’s craftsmanship, aesthetics, brand, and commitment to sustainability. The primary exterior palette includes board-formed concrete, high-performance glass, and blackened zinc metal panels. On the interior, the steel and concrete structure is exposed. The unique design of the curtain wall and glazing systems allow for natural lighting to complement the open-concept workplace and provides quality exterior views from all occupied spaces, even the basement. The interior finish is contemporary and welcoming with open workstations, generous meeting spaces, and even a café.

State-of-the-art virtual construction technologies are implemented, including a collaboration room equipped with touch-enabled video displays that allow for teams to work on multiple documents and 3D models. A virtual reality room allows clients, trainees, and teams to dive into 3D simulated motion-tracking environments to support project visualization for informed design decisions, enhanced trade coordination, and safety training. The new headquarters also features greater employee amenities, including interactive training spaces, a work café with a two-story fireplace and lounge area, an outdoor terrace with a grill, storage for bicycles, and a fully-equipped wellness center.