Designed by Peruvian-born architect W.A. Sarmiento and completed in 1964, the Phoenix Financial Center faced pressure for new development. To avoid demolition, the space found unique contemporary uses that respect the existing structure and Sarmiento’s original design.

The design approach creates a modern space that maintains the open environment of the ground floor as the firm’s architectural studio, while converting the former bank vault into gallery space. The mezzanine’s private offices have been transformed into collaboration rooms, and two private offices were combined to create a larger break room. Throughout the rotunda, existing light fixtures were retained and refitted with high-efficiency lighting, clearly distinguishing old and new elements.

The studio balances the restoration of Sarmiento’s original intent with a modern interpretation of the space for its current use. Iconic elements of the original design, many of which had been lost or badly altered, have become core features of the renovation. This project contributes to the revival of the urban landscape by exploring design ideas that modernize the space while respecting the existing structure, reintroducing lost elements, and designing a space to activate the surrounding community.

Notable features include the preservation and refitting of iconic lighting fixtures with high-efficiency lighting, and re-imagined spaces that personify the contemporary workplace while paying homage to Sarmiento’s original design intent. The revitalized mid-century modern icon connects Phoenix’s history with its potential, incorporating a variety of design elements and biophilic design patterns that support contemporary methods of working. These include individual workstations, open and private collaborative areas, treadmill and sit-to-stand desks, social spaces, green plants, naturally day-lit spaces, a makerspace, and virtual connectivity.