Chase Manhattan Bank's objective was to consolidate three existing Data Centers into a single facility. The site chosen
involved the complete renovation of a nondescript, 55,000 square foot building in an office park setting.
The new Data Center's interior architectural design had to balance with the engineering infrastructure requiring
redundant systems to support a Twenty-Four Hour - Seven Day operational facility. The design also required the
integration of a sophisticated audio visual communication system. The nature of the Data Center's operations
required a high security design that blended in with the overall environment. The viewing Gallery, where visitors
observe the Command Center Activity, had to be visually impressive as well as demonstrate the technology used,
to the market place.
The Architectural Program required that finish material and furnishings contribute a balance between "TECHY"
systems and materials with forms, scale and finishes that provided a Human and Warm environment. The interior Fit Out
Program required new toilet facilities, a 2,500 square foot cafeteria, conference spaces, offices and staff spaces all
supporting the "Corner Stone" of the project - the "Command Center."
The Command Center consists of 15,000 square feet of space integrated into one corner of the building allowing for
future expansion capabilities.
The scope of engineering services included the design of a redundant infrastructure which included Uninterruptible
Power Supply (UPS), Battery Backup, and Generator Sets. This N+2 design assured the client of an ongoing twenty-four
hour facility. Security design measures included Bullet Resistant glazing on all windows throughout the facility,
utilizing landscape elements (such as berms) to aid security preventative initiatives, and high technology CCTV
surveillance system.
In the Command Center, video walls, data and electric hubs, and a "War Room" formed a radial plan. The
spokes of the radial plan provided spines that allow for the integration of air condition systems and crated
"Pods" or zones where the ceiling heights could be maximized by "Acoustic Sails" that diffuses
sound and light. The pod areas provided the space for the custom furniture clusters to be integrated into the plan.
The custom furniture clusters were designed and engineered by the architectural firm, and were prototyped and tested
by the client's employees before installation. A balanced ambient lighting was created throughout the "Command
Center." The glazing surrounding the Viewing Gallery is electrified, allowing it to be obscured for security
and confidentiality reasons.
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