Recognized as a signature building in downtown Columbia, the Rouse building was originally designed by world-renowned architect Frank Gehry in 1974. Featuring numerous setback terraces and large windows, the office building has become a mixed-use space, home to a grocery store and health spa. CBH+A delicately adapted this historic and iconic building to accommodate future use.
The primary design intervention updated the main entry - relocating it for improved circulation, enlarging the lobby into a two-story bay, and expanding the trellis.
The original entry was located on the northwest corner of the building.
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New uses in historic space
It was essential to retain the original character and image of the signature building even as it evolves to become a more relevant, heavily-used, community space.
Interior renovations were made to suit the needs of the new tenant, including removing one of the floors to obtain a double-height interior space, but the signature light well remains along with the feelings of openness and light inherent in the original design.
A new café occupies the northeast corner of the building, opening out to an existing terrace with views to Lake Kittamaqundi.
