Gould Evans’ new Kansas City Studio speaks to the firm’s continued investment in the Westport District, which it has called home for the last 22 years. A 1925 era historic building was adapted into a modern workplace that facilitates the firm’s progressive design practice and highlights its entrepreneurial spirit. The two-story studio capitalizes on the original structure’s unique bones to provide a variety of intelligent and flexible work environments. These include a maker space, a heads-down loft space, technology-enabled teaming areas, and an outdoor patio along the trolley tracks. A generous communal zone supports social gatherings and community events.

A distinctive feature of this space is the custom perforated metal stair paneling designed by a Gould Evans associate, which creates patterned light displays throughout the day. The studio also includes a new home for nonprofit STEAM Studio (co-founded by Gould Evans), providing enhanced opportunities for kids to learn within a professional work environment.

The design of the space hinged on both wellness and sustainability goals. Natural daylight and ventilation through operable windows provide a comfortable environment for employees. A high-performance HVAC system was used, coupling a dedicated outdoor air system (DOAS) with a variable refrigerant flow system (VRF). The original stone façade was retained, and a high-performance envelope was created with the addition of insulation in the walls, on the roof, and new windows.